As global trade conditions evolve, Chinese exporters must respond with agility and foresight. The recent escalation of U.S. tariffs under former President Donald Trump—raising duties on Chinese goods up to 145%—has triggered a sharp 60% drop in shipments to the U.S. from China. Yet amid this disruption lies a major strategic opening: Mexico.
Under the USMCA trade agreement, goods manufactured or routed through Mexico enjoy preferential access to the U.S. market. Chinese companies increasingly view Mexico as a critical platform for maintaining and expanding their North American presence. The starting point? Obtaining a Registro Federal de Contribuyentes (RFC)—the Mexican tax identification number required to legally operate in the country.
Why the RFC Number is Essential
Issued by Mexico’s tax authority (SAT), the RFC is mandatory for any commercial operation in the country. Without it, businesses cannot issue legal invoices, submit tax filings, or register on major sales platforms such as Amazon Mexico, Mercado Libre, and Walmart Mexico.
Even more importantly, if a seller does not link a valid RFC and a Mexican bank account to their e-commerce profile, platforms like Amazon Mexico will automatically withhold VAT (IVA) from payouts—impacting margins and complicating financial operations.
Two Effective Approaches for RFC Registration
Chinese businesses can secure an RFC number by choosing between two practical business models—each suited to different expansion goals:
1. Registering Through a Legal Representative
This model is designed for companies that want a quick and straightforward market entry. The RFC is obtained under the name of a local legal representative, and the package typically includes a Mexican registered office address and a dedicated bank account. These elements ensure full compatibility with platform requirements and prevent VAT retention.
This approach enables Chinese exporters to begin trading immediately, while staying fully compliant with Mexican tax regulations.
2. Establishing a Mexican Entity
For businesses seeking long-term positioning and full operational control, incorporating a Mexican company is the optimal route. This includes:
RFC number registration
Fiscal address
Legal representation
Certified accounting and tax compliance
Electronic invoicing (CFDI) capability
A corporate bank account in the company’s name
This structure supports local hiring, inventory management, and supply chain operations—offering a solid foundation for sustainable cross-border growth.
Meeting Tax Obligations
No matter which business structure is used, companies must adhere to Mexican compliance rules, including:
Timely monthly and annual tax declarations
Use of certified electronic invoicing (CFDI)
Accurate bookkeeping and tax reporting
Non-compliance risks include fines and restrictions from e-commerce platforms.
Trump’s revived tariffs may challenge direct trade between China and the U.S., but Mexico provides a powerful alternative. By securing an RFC and aligning with Mexican tax and business standards, Chinese exporters can protect their market access, reduce costs, and build a resilient presence in North America. Chinese entrepreneurs can order their RFC number service or Contact Us – Moxige RFC to setup your Mexican company.
10 Cultural & Historical Attractions for Your 2-Day Business Trip in Mexico City
- Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución)
Explore Mexico City’s main square, surrounded by historic landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace. - Museo Nacional de Antropología
Discover Mexico’s ancient civilizations through artifacts like the Aztec Sun Stone. - Palacio de Bellas Artes
Admire Art Deco architecture and Diego Rivera’s iconic murals at this cultural hub. - Chapultepec Castle
Tour the former imperial residence with panoramic views of Chapultepec Park. - Templo Mayor
Walk among the ruins of the Aztec Empire’s central temple, unearthed in the 1970s. - Coyoacán
Wander cobblestone streets and visit the Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul). - Xochimilco
Float through UNESCO-listed canals on a traditional trajinera boat. - Museo Soumaya
Marvel at over 66,000 artworks, including European masters and Mexican modernism. - Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Visit the sacred site where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared in 1531. - Torre Latinoamericana
Enjoy skyline views from the observation deck of this earthquake-resistant skyscraper.