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Tequila Exports

Certificates of Authenticity for the Export of Tequila guarantee exclusively the lot to be exported.

Tequila's uniqueness on the global beverage scene mirrors the uniqueness of its Mexican agribusiness. This distillate, emblematic of Mexico, has crossed borders, reaching more than one hundred nations. 

The diversification of tequila export markets not only represents a significant source of income for Mexican companies in this sector, but also has incalculable symbolic value. By exporting tequila, Mexico spreads awareness and appreciation of its culture and traditions, strengthening the national identity associated with this beverage. The international expansion of tequila is not only a commercial strategy, but also a cultural mission, taking the history and spirit of Mexico with it to every corner of the world.

The evolution of tequila in international markets is a testament to the adaptability and strategic vision of the tequila industry. As new markets emerge and consolidate, tequila companies face the challenge of satisfying a diverse demand while maintaining the authenticity and quality that have made tequila a world-renowned beverage. This phenomenon not only benefits the companies involved economically, but also contributes to the global recognition of Mexico's cultural richness.

The overall growth of Tequila exports from 1995 to 2023 is shown in the following graph:

For each international shipment, it is necessary to obtain a certificate by category, class, alcoholic strength and brand of Tequila

General documents and formalities for Tequila exports

For a successful export of Tequila by a bottler and/or exporter, in accordance with current regulations, the following steps must be followed in detail:

  1. Co-responsibility Agreement: It is essential to have a co-responsibility agreement that is validated by the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI). This agreement ensures that Tequila complies with the appellations of origin and protects its identity at an international level.
  2. Bottling Approval Certificate: The Dirección General de Normas (DGN) must issue a certificate stating that the bottling process complies with all applicable regulations. This certificate is a guarantee that the Tequila has been bottled following the required quality standards.
  3. Registration in the Bottlers' Register: The company must be registered in the Bottlers' Register, which is an official register kept by the Tequila Regulatory Council (CRT). In addition, it is mandatory to send a quarterly report to the CRT, detailing production and exports, in order to maintain transparency and control over Tequila bottling and distribution activities.
  4. Registration in the Sectorial Register of Exporters: It is essential for the exporter to be registered in this register, which allows it to operate within the legal framework of foreign trade.
  5. Consulting with a Customs Broker: The figure of the customs broker is key in the export process. This professional will advise and manage the export declaration, an essential document that details the merchandise to be exported.
  6. Presentation of Documents at Customs: During customs clearance, the exporter must present, in addition to other required documents, the original of the Export Order and the Certificate of Authenticity for the Export of Tequila. The latter guarantees the quality and origin of the product.

It is important to note that each of these steps is a critical link in the export chain and must be executed with precision and attention to detail to avoid setbacks or penalties. In addition, it is recommended to maintain constant communication with the customs authorities and follow to the letter all indications and additional requirements that may arise during the process.

In the case of the importer and/or marketer, it must comply with the specific requirements demanded for each destination country, either in terms of characteristics, documentation and/or labeling of the finished product (without forgetting the labeling requirements demanded by NOM-006-SCFI-2012 for export Tequila), for this purpose, it must be informed about the applicable regulations in each country.

Certificates of Authenticity for Tequila Exports

Certificates of Authenticity for Tequila Exports guarantee exclusively the lot to be exported. For each international shipment, it is necessary to obtain a certificate by category, class, alcoholic strength and brand of Tequila. Each certificate can cover up to a maximum of four different volumes. It is essential that the trademark is duly registered and, if applicable, that there is a Binding and Co-responsibility Agreement approved by IMPI. If there is a License of Use or an Assignment of Rights, the corresponding documents must be sent to the CRT.

1. On your first approach with the CRT, you must submit the Service Rendering Application and the Client's Obligations. These documents must be originally signed, printed in color and drafted using electronic devices (not by hand).

2. To request access to the Export Application Program and obtain credentials and username, send an email. Include your full name and, if your export is forthcoming, take the opportunity to request your importing customer's registration as well. Provide the exact name and address as it will appear on the invoice to facilitate the process. Send your request to: exportacion@crt.org.mx.

3. To request the Certificate of Authenticity for Tequila Exports, the process is done electronically by entering the extranet.tequila.org.mx platform. Once inside, with your personal passwords, you must provide the required information:

  • Order Number: (Optional) For product identification.
  • Type of Sale: Either bottled or bulk.
  • Customer: Name or company name.
  • Address: Complete address.
  • Tequila Class: Blanco, joven, reposado, añejo or extra añejo.
  • Alcohol Content: Percentage of alcohol by volume.
  • Category: Tequila or Tequila 100%.
  • Flavor: If required.
  • Trademark: Registered name of the brand.
  • Batch Number(s): Only applicable for packaged products.
  • Packaging: Number of cases, bottles per case and capacity of each bottle (for bottled products only).
  • Shipping Container: For bulk tequila only.
  • Quantity: Number of containers, for bulk only.
  • Volume in Liters: For bulk only.
  • Customs Office of Exit: Point of exit from the country.
  • Terms of Sale: Commercial conditions.
  • Address for Sampling: Address where sampling will take place, if different from the registered address.

4. The approval of the Certificate of Authenticity for Tequila Export by the CRT is subject to the satisfaction of certain essential criteria:

  • Certificate of Compliance: the Authorized Producer must possess a current certificate attesting compliance with applicable regulations.
  • Certification of the Brand: The Tequila brand destined for export must be certified, which confirms its authorization for commercialization.
  • Certification for Bottlers: In the case of bulk exports where the Tequila will be subsequently bottled, the bottler must have a Certificate of Approval and be registered in the CRT Bottlers Register.

5. Upon approval of the application, the applicant must upload to the electronic system the commercial sales invoice in PDF format, which must match the application data, including the invoice number and the corresponding dollar amount.

For marketers who are neither producers nor packers, it is necessary to attach the commercial invoice of purchase of the product in PDF. If there is a Trademark Use License, the purchase invoice does not need to be submitted.

The CRT indicates that, in response to the certificate request:

  • The information provided will be automatically verified by the system.
  • An assigned verifier will visit the sampling site to inspect the product and provide an endorsement.
  • The applicant can check the status of their application online.
  • The issuance of the certificate depends on the compliance with the minimum requirements and the availability of the product for verification. The Certification Body must be contacted to confirm delivery of the certificate.
  • The cost of the certificate is $250.00 pesos plus VAT for non-associated marketers.
  • If the product is not at the Authorized Producer's facilities, additional costs will be incurred.
  • The certificate will be delivered at the CRT offices in Zapopan, Jalisco.

This process ensures the authenticity and quality of Tequila destined for international markets, reflecting the CRT's commitment to excellence and regulatory compliance. If you need any other modifications, I'm here to help.


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