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Last updateThu, 08 Jan 2026 7pm

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Mexico’s 2026 tax plan: crackdowns and new levies on ‘harmful’ products

To fund a historic expansion of social welfare programs in 2026, the Mexican Congress last year approved a new tax strategy focused on enforcement and selective tax hikes.   The plan avoids broad reform and increased personal taxes, instead targeting fraud, digital platforms and specific “harmful” goods to generate the revenue needed to cover the rising costs of pensions, youth scholarships and other benefits (see story above).

Mapping the billions: Who gets what from Mexico’s huge social welfare budget?

Why does Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum maintain favorability ratings of around 70 percent while other world leaders are struggling so much — Trump 42 percent, Starmer 23 percent, Macron seven percent?  Perhaps we should look no further than her government’s social welfare (Bienestar) programs, a key factor in her 2024 election landslide.

Mexico’s Christmas season is still not over

Navidad and Año Nuevo festivities have come and gone, but Mexico’s Christmas season will roll on for yet another four weeks. Celebrations still to come are Dia de los Tres Reyes (Three Kings Day) on  January 6, and Dia de la Candelaria (Candlemas), the seasonal wrap-up on February 2. 

The Ultimate New Year’s Quiz on All-Things Mexican

Think you know Mexico? Whether you’re a newcomer still learning the lay of the land or a seasoned expat who’s adopted pozole or birria as your favorite dish, this New Year’s quiz will put your knowledge to the test.

From ancient history and art to slang, sports and current events, these 21 questions span the depth and breadth of Mexican culture, geography and politics. Grab a drink, settle in, and see how many you can answer sin ayuda. ¡Buena suerte!  Answers at the end.