Mexico Orders the Suspension of All Non-Essential Businesses and Activities Until April 30th

Due to an increase in Coronavirus cases in the country, On March 30th the Mexican government officially declared a health emergency and ordered the suspension of all non-essential activities (public, private and social) until April 30th.

Which Businesses/Activities Are Deemed Essential?

The federal government, via el Consejo de Salubridad General, released a list of businesses/activities that could continue to operate normally. They fall into five primary categories:

1) Those directly involved with dealing with the health crisis

This group includes medical professionals and support staff; those who manufacture and/or provide medical supplies; those who provide medical sanitation and disposal services; and those in the pharmaceutical industry.

2) Those directly involved in safety/security

This group includes law enforcement, military and judicial personnel.

3) Those related the legislative branch of government

The politicians and elected officials will still be hard at work.

4) Those deemed essential to maintain the economy*

• Financial services (e.g. banks, credit card companies)

• Tax collection

• Distribution and sale of electricity and fuel

• Food and drink industry (non-alcoholic)

• Supermarkets and food stores

• Stores considered autoservicio (e.g. Walmart, OXXO, Home Depot)

• Transportation services (passengers and cargo)

• Production of agricultural products and livestock

• Production and distribution of chemicals and cleaning products

• Hardware stores

• Package delivery services (e.g. DHL)

• Private security companies

• Daycare centers

• Homes and centers for the elderly

• Telecommunication services

• Funeral and cremation services

• Warehouse/storage services

• Cold storage businesses providing essential supplies

• Essential government services necessary to maintain the infrastructure

* Source: Consejo de Salubridad General

5) Those related to government social programs

Government social programs will remain in operation during this period of time (e.g. food bank, mental health services)

Let’s Wrap This Up

In addition to these measures, the federal government has urged people stay at home to help curb the spread of the virus. Many states and municipalities have taken it upon themselves to enact tougher measure that include the closure of public areas (e.g. beaches), restrictions on the sale of alcoholic beverages and curfews.

For those readers who are in Mexico now, I recommend that you follow the Twitter accounts for both your state and municipality to stay informed.

Well that’s it for now. Stay home and stay healthy. Hasta luego.