Classification
Product TypeProcessed Food
Product FormDried
Industry PositionProcessed fruit product (shelf-stable dried fruit) used for retail and as a food-manufacturing ingredient
Market
Raisins (dried grapes; HS 080620) in Mexico are primarily supplied via imports: UN Comtrade (via WITS) reports 2023 imports of about US$14.6M (8.94M kg), mainly from the United States, Chile and Peru. Mexico has domestic grape production that includes an “uva pasa” segment (reported by SADER/SIAP, with Sonora a leading producing state), but available trade data indicate Mexico functions mainly as a net-importer market for raisins.
Market RoleNet importer (import-dependent consumer/ingredient market) with limited domestic raisin production
SeasonalityRaisins are shelf-stable and can be available year-round via imports and storage; domestic grape supply seasonality is linked to Mexico’s grape harvest window (reported as May–August for most availability in SADER/SIAP communications).
Risks
Food Safety Mycotoxins HighOchratoxin A (OTA) contamination is a documented food-safety hazard in dried vine fruits (including raisins) linked to drying and storage conditions; non-compliant lots can trigger import rejection, recalls, and commercial disruption in Mexico’s market.Require supplier controls on drying/moisture and storage humidity, plus lot-based lab testing/COA for OTA and mold indicators; maintain dry-warehouse pest and humidity controls through distribution.
Labeling Compliance MediumRetail prepackaged raisins must comply with NOM-051 labeling requirements; non-compliant Spanish labeling (including mandatory statements and any applicable front-of-pack elements) can cause relabeling delays, enforcement actions, or market withdrawal.Pre-clear label artwork against NOM-051 and COFEPRIS guidance before shipment; ensure ingredient/additive declarations match the actual product presentation (e.g., ‘golden/bleached’ types).
Sps Clearance MediumIf the specific raisins presentation/origin is regulated under SENASICA phytosanitary controls, missing or mismatched documentation versus MCRFI requirements can cause border delays or refusal to issue the phytosanitary import certificate at entry.Verify MCRFI requirements for the exact tariff line/product description and origin prior to contracting; align exporter documents and treatments to SENASICA conditions.
Quality Storage LowRaisins are hygroscopic; moisture uptake during storage/transport can increase clumping, quality defects, and mold risk, leading to claims and write-offs.Use moisture-barrier packaging, enforce dry storage conditions, and implement FIFO with periodic quality checks for water activity/moisture.
FAQ
Which HS code is typically used to analyze Mexico’s raisin (dried grape) imports?Mexico’s raisin trade is typically tracked under HS 080620 (dried grapes). UN Comtrade data accessed via WITS reports Mexico’s HS 080620 imports by origin and year.
Which authority sets phytosanitary import requirements for plant products like raisins entering Mexico?SENASICA sets and administers phytosanitary import requirements for regulated plant products. Importers are expected to consult SENASICA’s phytosanitary requirements module and, when applicable, obtain the phytosanitary import certificate issued at Mexico’s point of entry after meeting requirements.
What Mexican rule governs labeling for prepackaged raisins sold to consumers?NOM-051-SCFI/SSA1-2010 governs the commercial and sanitary labeling requirements for prepackaged foods in Mexico, and COFEPRIS publishes guidance materials related to the 2020 modification.
What additives are recognized in the Codex standard for raisins (including golden/bleached types)?Codex CXS 067-1981 lists sulphur dioxide for bleached raisins (with a maximum level specified in the standard) and also lists sorbitol and food-grade mineral oil, along with permitted edible vegetable oils used to help raisins flow freely.