January 22, 2026
On January 19, 2026, the Decree enacting the General Law on Circular Economy and amending and supplementing various provisions of the General Law of Ecological Balance and Environmental Protection and the General Law for the Prevention and Integral Management of Waste was published in the Official Gazette of the Federation (hereinafter, the “Decree").
- Background
The publication of the Decree in the Official Gazette of the Federation continues the legislative efforts previously documented in the NotiBasham publication entitled “Circular Economy: Key Changes for Industry in Mexico”, which analyzed the bill and its main regulatory implications for the industrial sector.
It should be noted that the text finally published does not incorporate substantive modifications with respect to the initiative previously analyzed; therefore, the scope and obligations described in said publication remain unchanged.
Link to the publication: https://basham.com.mx/economia-circular-cambios-clave-para-la-industria-en-mexico/
- Relevance of the New Legal Framework
The General Law on Circular Economy represents a structural shift in the way materials and waste are produced, consumed, and managed. Its objective is to promote the transition from the traditional production and consumption model to a circular economy model, in which resources are used more efficiently and their useful life is extended.
This new regulatory framework promotes a more efficient and responsible use of resources, which will have direct impacts on companies’ operational and strategic decisions. In particular, industries will be required to incorporate circular economy criteria into product design, supply chain management, and the implementation of waste management and valorization strategies.
- Application of the Decree
The Decree entered into force on January 20, 2026, as of which date the competent authorities may require compliance therewith, in accordance with the timeframes set forth in the transitory provisions. Among the relevant elements, the following stand out:
- Issuance of the Regulations to the General Law on Circular Economy. These must be issued within 180 calendar days following the entry into force of the Decree. Such regulations will further develop the specific obligations set forth in the Law, including the requirements and formalities for the use of the National Circular Economy Distinctive.
- Harmonization of local legislation. Local legislation must be aligned within 180 calendar days following the entry into force of the Decree. In the event of non-compliance, the provisions of the General Law shall apply directly.
- Gradual implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). General agreements will be issued for the implementation of EPR, establishing the mechanisms for the gradual application of the obligations provided for in the Decree.
At Basham, Ringe y Correa, S.C., we are prepared to provide comprehensive regulatory and environmental advisory services, as well as to assert the appropriate legal remedies in the event that the rights of private parties are infringed.
SINCERELY:
Juan Carlos Serra
Adolfo Athié
Jesus Colunga
Marina Fernández
María Regina Sotelo