Market
Dried lentils in Mexico are an import-dependent dry-pulse market: UN Comtrade data (via WITS) shows Mexico imported dried shelled lentils (HS 071340) in 2023 primarily from Canada. Domestic production exists (notably in Michoacán), but import clearance and documentation compliance (SENASICA/SADER regulation and customs e-documents) are central to supply reliability.
Market RoleNet importer / import-dependent consumer market
Domestic RoleShelf-stable pulse consumed domestically; supply is largely import-supplied with limited domestic production in specific regions
SeasonalityYear-round availability driven by shelf-stable imports and domestic storage rather than harvest seasonality.
Risks
Phytosanitary / Market Access HighNon-compliance with Mexico’s SADER/SENASICA plant-health import regime (including the need to follow the SENASICA phytosanitary requirements module for the specific origin/use and to satisfy point-of-entry certification steps) can result in border delays, required corrective actions, or rejection/return of shipments for regulated goods.Confirm the exact MCRF requirement set for lentils by origin and intended use before contracting; align supplier documents and pre-shipment controls to the checklist used for SENASICA clearance at entry.
Regulatory / Documentation MediumCustoms clearance depends on correctly transmitting required e-documents (value/commercialization data, transport documents, and evidence of non-tariff compliance when applicable); errors or missing data can trigger delays and penalties.Use an experienced customs broker and run a pre-clearance audit of e-documents and product descriptions aligned to the tariff fraction and any applicable DOF-published restrictions.
Market Concentration MediumMexico’s dried lentil import supply shows concentration risk: UN Comtrade (via WITS) records Canada as the source for Mexico’s 2023 HS 071340 imports, increasing exposure to supplier-side shocks and pricing swings.Qualify alternate origins and maintain flexible contracting (split shipments, optionality on origin) to reduce single-origin exposure.
Labeling / Retail Compliance LowRetail-prepacked lentils placed on the Mexican market must meet NOM-051 labeling requirements; mislabeling can cause relabeling costs, delisting, or enforcement action for consumer-facing SKUs.Validate Spanish labeling and NOM-051 conformance before printing packaging; keep label proofs and compliance files for importer audits.
FAQ
Is Mexico a net importer of dried lentils, and who is the main supplier?Yes. UN Comtrade data (via WITS) shows Mexico imported dried shelled lentils (HS 071340) in 2023 with Canada recorded as the supplier.
What are the key Mexico-side steps for phytosanitary import compliance for lentils?Mexico requires importers to check the SENASICA phytosanitary requirements module (MCRF) for the specific product/origin/use and complete the applicable measures; SENASICA issues the Certificado Fitosanitario para Importación at points of entry for regulated plant-origin goods after requirements are met.
What tariff fraction is used for lentils in Mexico’s trade regulation lists?Mexico’s DOF-published SADER regulation list includes lentils under fraction 0713.40.01, which is used to identify regulated goods and link them to applicable import requirements.