In Mexico, the government's stricter controls to prevent fuel smuggling and tax evasion have resulted in significant shortages of lubricants and greases essential for the automotive industry. Reports indicate that a manufacturing plant has already halted operations, with at least three more on the verge of doing the same, affecting major automobile brands operating in the states of Chihuahua, Coahuila, Aguascalientes, and Guanajuato. These disruptions have raised concerns among manufacturers about the viability of production as they face challenges sourcing the necessary materials.

The automotive sector is crucial for Mexico's economy, with major companies like Ford, General Motors, Stellantis, Nissan, and others actively producing within the country. The crisis peaked in December when annual import permits were renewed, leading to excessive bureaucracy that delayed the necessary processes to secure lubricants. Such operational disruptions threaten to halt production lines and hinder the contributions of the automotive industry to the national economy.

Manufacturers are now appealing for support from authorities to address these supply chain issues, as the lack of lubricants could seriously impact automotive production schedules and overall economic stability in the region. The situation highlights the delicate balance between government regulatory efforts and industrial needs, raising questions about the long-term implications for manufacturing operations in Mexico amidst rigorous enforcement of anti-smuggling policies.