Chile and Mexico Streamline Trade with Electronic Animal Health Certification

Chile and Mexico have fully implemented electronic animal health certification for bilateral trade, marking a significant step towards modernizing trade procedures and bolstering the competitiveness of Chile’s livestock industry. The initiative, jointly led by the Chilean Agriculture and Livestock Service (SAG) and the Mexican National Food Hygiene, Safety and Quality Service (Senasica), aims to reduce administrative burdens and enhance the security and efficiency of trade between the two nations.

A Milestone in Bilateral Cooperation

This development represents a milestone in the collaboration between Chile and Mexico, particularly within the framework of the Pacific Alliance. The move to a paperless, 100% electronic certification system is expected to have a substantial positive impact on the agricultural trade sector. SAG and Senasica spearheaded this effort.

Scope of the Electronic Certification

The electronic certification applies to a wide range of animal products. Exports from Chile to Mexico now include electronic certification for fresh meat and by-products of poultry, pork, beef, and mutton intended for human consumption. Conversely, imports from Mexico to Chile encompass live animals, animal products and by-products for both human and animal use, as well as biological, chemical, pharmaceutical, and feed products.

Enhanced Security and Efficiency

The new system operates through the Single Window for International Trade platform (Ventanilla Única de Comercio Exterior), ensuring secure, immediate, and traceable data transfer between the two countries. This digitization not only modernizes document management but also strengthens traceability and overall trade efficiency.

Implications for Trade

The implementation of electronic certification is anticipated to significantly reduce administrative burdens, streamline logistical processes, and facilitate the entry of Chilean products into the Mexican market. This positions Chile as a regional leader in electronic certification and reinforces the benefits of collaboration within the Pacific Alliance.

Mexico-Chile Trade Modernization

In February 2026, Mexico and Chile began operating with 100% electronic zoosanitary certification in a paperless format, marking a significant advancement in facilitating bilateral trade. This modernization also strengthens sanitary cooperation between the two countries, reinforcing control mechanisms to guarantee the safety of animal-origin products traded between the markets.

Pet Travel Considerations

Regarding pet travel from the United States to Chile, a consulate endorsement of the International Health Certificate is not required for personal dogs or cats. However, if a pet is too young to receive a rabies vaccination, owners should contact Chilean Animal Health Officials to determine eligibility for travel.