Key takeaways
- Consumer rights sit with Profeco; health products with COFEPRIS.
- NOM labelling rules, including front-of-pack warnings on foods, affect what you can sell.
- Selling runs on the catálogo, WhatsApp and cash-friendly payments.
Is direct selling legal in Mexico?
Yes. Direct selling is a large, established sales channel in Mexico. Consumers are protected by the Federal Consumer Protection Law and the Profeco agency, health products and cosmetics are regulated by COFEPRIS, and schemes that mainly pay for recruitment are not allowed. Check registration and product permits before joining.
General information, not legal advice. Confirm current rules with the agencies named.
Who regulates what
| Body | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Profeco | Consumer rights, complaints, misleading advertising, contracts |
| COFEPRIS | Health products: cosmetics, supplements, medicines; registrations and permits |
| NOM standards | Labelling and product standards, including front-of-pack warnings on packaged foods and drinks |
| SAT | Tax registration (RFC), electronic invoices (CFDI) and filings |
How selling differs across Mexico
High altitude, dry air
At around 2,240 metres, the air is dry and the sun strong, so moisturiser, lip care and sunscreen are year-round needs. Metro commutes of an hour or more make WhatsApp ordering and delivery to a workplace or metro station normal. The rainy season runs roughly June to September.
Jalisco's commercial heart
A big market for beauty, fashion and wellness, with a strong tradition of neighbourhood selling and tianguis markets. Family networks are close, so recommendations spread quickly.
An industrial northern city
Hot summers and an industrious, price-aware workforce. Sellers adapt to factory and office schedules, and customers value punctual delivery and clear invoices.
Heat and humidity
Hot, humid conditions most of the year. Light formulas, sunscreen and deodorants lead, and local traditions and the Maya-language heritage influence how communities buy.
What shapes buying
- The catálogo. Many customers order by flipping a printed or digital catalogue and paying in weekly instalments to a trusted seller.
- Mother's Day. May 10 is the largest personal-care and gifting day of the year, ahead of Christmas and the November "Buen Fin" sales weekend.
- Payments. Cash, bank transfer (SPEI), cards and OXXO convenience-store deposits, which let people pay in cash against a reference.
- WhatsApp. Orders, photos and delivery arrangements all happen there.
- Language. Spanish. Be clear and polite. Avoid jargon.
Tax and records
If you sell regularly you may need a tax registration (RFC) and electronic invoices (CFDI). A simplified regime for individuals exists for small taxpayers, with conditions. Confirm your situation with the SAT or an accountant.
Selling well in Mexico
- Show the product's registration or notification where required, and keep the label intact.
- Be clear about instalments. Agree amounts and dates in writing.
- Make claims modestly. For supplements, see the label guide.
- Run the checks: red flags and the pyramid tests.
Frequently asked questions
Is direct selling legal in Mexico?
Yes. Direct selling is a large, established channel in Mexico. Consumer rights are protected by the Federal Consumer Protection Law and Profeco, health products are regulated by COFEPRIS, and pyramid-type schemes are not allowed. Check the company's registration and product permits.
What is Profeco?
Profeco is Mexico's federal consumer protection agency. It handles complaints, can mediate between consumers and businesses, and publishes guidance and warnings.
Do I need to issue invoices in Mexico?
If you trade regularly, you may need to register with the tax authority and issue electronic invoices known as CFDI. Rules depend on your tax regime, so confirm them with the SAT or an accountant.
Sources
- Profeco, Mexico: consumer protection. www.gob.mx
- COFEPRIS, Mexico: health products regulator. www.gob.mx
- SAT, Mexico: tax administration. www.sat.gob.mx
- World Federation of Direct Selling Associations. wfdsa.org