Business travel in Mexico (Bering guides)

BERING GUIDES BUSINESS TRAVEL IN MEXICO

MAP AND TIME ZONES

Mexico uses the metric system and measures temperature in degrees Celsius. It includes three different time zones. Tijuana, directly across the U.S. border from San Diego, follows the U.S. Pacific Standard Time. Most of the western regions, however, follow Mountain Standard. The rest of the country (central and eastern regions) follows Central Standard Time. All of Mexico observes daylight savings time. The 24hour clock is used in written language (school schedules, business meeting agendas, etc.) but rarely spoken. Copyright © 2003 Axiom Press, Inc. Developed in conjunction with the Brigham Young University Marriott School of Management. It is against the law to copy, reprint, store, or transmit any part of this publication in any form by any means without written permission from Axiom Press, Inc.

AT A GLANCE (2002) Capital Population Head of Government Chief of State GDP Total GDP Per Capita Currency Exchange rate Inflation Unemployment Rate Literacy Rate Language(s) Annual Population Growth Rate Area Major Cities Natural Resources Main Industries

Mexico City (Distrito Federal) 104.91 million (2003) President Vicente Fox President Vicente Fox USD 637 billion (market exchange rate) USD 6,257 (market exchange rate) USD 9,039 (purchasing power parity) Mexican peso (MXN) USD 1 = 11.16 MXN (10/15/03) 5 percent 2.70 percent 91.4 percent (2000) Spanish and various Mayan, Nahuatl, and other regional indigenous languages 1.47 percent 761,602 square miles (1,972,550 sq km) Ciudad Juarez, Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey, Tijuana Petroleum, silver, copper, gold, lead, zinc, natural gas, timber, iron ore Machinery and transport equipment, mineral fuels and lubricants, petroleum, tobacco, chemicals, textiles, clothing, motor vehicles, consumer durables, tourism, beverages

BASIC INFORMATION Geography Covering 761,602 square miles, Mexico is about one-fifth the size of the United States. It shares its northern border with the United States and its southern border with Guatemala and Belize. Temperatures and rainfall vary with elevation and region. Much of the north is dry and hot; humidity is higher in the south, where tropical jungles are found, and along coastal areas. The higher and cooler central plateau, where Mexico City is located, is bounded by the Sierra Madre mountain ranges. Rain falls mainly in the summer (June–October) on the central plateau. Mountains, including many extinct volcanoes, cover two-thirds of the country.

Politics Mexico’s system of government is a federal republic—similar to that of the United States. It has a chief executive, a bicameral legislature, and a judicial system with a supreme court. Mexico is divided into 31 states and one federal district, which is home of Mexico City (the country’s capital). The Mexican government is guided by a constitution that places strict term limits on all political offices. The president is elected to a six-year term, after which he or she must step down. In all other areas of government, consecutive re-election in any position is 1

prohibited. However, partly because immediate reelection is not an option, elected officials sometimes see themselves as less accountable to the voting public. Political Parties Although there are many active political parties in Mexico, the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) dominated Mexican government and occupied the presidency for over seven decades. The PRI often maintained control through election fraud, intimidation, and corruption. This stranglehold was broken in July 2000, however, when Vicente Fox of the National Action Party (PAN) was elected to the presidency. Recent changes in the government have resulted in a more balanced system, with the congress and the supreme court experiencing increased independence. President Fox has helped to reduce government corruption. In an effort to increase government transparency, he signed a freedom of information act in June 2002, which declassified millions of official documents from the 1960s and ’70s. This act exposed undemocratic and illegal practices of past administrations, and many former government officials have already been questioned in connection with such practices. By implementing this legislation, Fox has succeeded in gaining the support of the Mexican people—for his agenda and for the Mexican government itself. Although Fox’s government has reduced corruption and helped stimulate the economy, his negotiations with Congress have proved less successful. This is partially explained by the fact that his party has not held a majority in Congress.

Economy Mexico’s market-based economy has experienced rapid growth over the last 10 years. Total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has grown significantly since 1994, with the growth rate peaking in 2000 at 6.9 percent. Many economists attribute this growth to the increasing privatization of seaports, railroads, telecommunications, electricity, natural gas distribution, and airports. Another contributing factor has been growth in international trade. Since the implementation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1994, Mexico's trade with the United States and Canada has tripled. Background In preparation for entry into NAFTA, former President Carlos Salinas privatized government lands and industries, and scrapped government subsidies. Many Mexicans realized that these changes would open their industries to intense competition from the United States and Canada. As a result, there are occasional protests against NAFTA by American citizens. Many manufacturers, which prior to 1994 were located throughout Mexico, relocated to the northern border in order to reduce the costs of transportation to the United States. A migration of workers to northern Mexico soon followed. The shift in the location of the labor force served to accentuate existing cultural and economic differences between the north and south. Mexico's leading exports are manufactured goods such as textiles, automobiles, and oil and food products. In 2001 the Mexican peso (MXN) was one of the strongest currencies against the U.S. dollar, and inflation—once a huge problem—dropped below 5 percent. President Fox's tight fiscal policy helped to lower inflation, and since 2001, the peso has continued to strengthen against the U.S. dollar. 2

Throughout the international lending community, Mexico has the reputation of being seriously committed to sound economic policies and, unlike several other Latin American countries, enjoys a good standing with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). FYI In the past 10 years, Brazil and Argentina have been at serious risk for defaulting on loans. As a result, they have had to turn to the IMF for relief. While Brazil and Argentina currently have outstanding loans with the IMF of USD 25.8 billion and USD 15 billion, respectively, Mexico has no outstanding loans with the IMF, whatsoever.

Economically, Mexico still faces difficulties in strengthening its infrastructure, modernizing, and raising living standards. In 2001, an estimated 40 percent of the population lived under the poverty line, and income distribution remains very unequal. Current Trends The Mexican economy, like the U.S. economy, has experienced a recession since early 2001. This isn’t surprising, given the interconnectedness of the two economies. Eighty-eight percent of Mexico’s exports go to the United States, the majority of which are manufactured products extremely sensitive to economic downturns. In 2001, the economy stalled with a -0.3 percent growth rate. It has been recovering—slowly—and next year's GDP growth rate is projected at 3.6 percent. When seen in a global perspective, Mexico's recent economic woes do not appear extreme. In 2001, the United States had a GDP growth rate of only 0.3 percent. Mexico’s economy is faring much better than other Latin American economies that have historically been considered regional powerhouses. While Mexico’s GDP growth rate for 2001 was -0.3 percent, Argentina's was -14.7 percent. External debt as a percentage of annual GDP is 20.8 percent for Mexico, whereas the same figure for Argentina is almost double at 39.7 percent. Mexico reports that its current unemployment rate is 2.96 percent, but independent economic analysts say that Mexico’s unemployment is underreported. Underemployment affects a much larger percentage of the population, and Mexico’s National Statistics Institute (INEGI) estimates that one-fourth of the work force is active in the informal economy. Regional Differences Despite the economic growth of the late 1990s, prosperity remains elusive for much of Mexico’s population. Throughout Mexico, major cities are surrounded by run-down shantytowns, and rural areas continue to be neglected. The country is generally grouped into three general categories, each differing in its economic role. The North has experienced incredible industrial growth and increased integration with the southwestern United States, especially with their business culture. The pace of life and business is slower—more relaxed and informal, too—outside the large cities. The economy in the south is dominated by agriculture, and the land is rich with natural resources. Business culture in the south is very formal and traditional. The majority of Mexico's indigenous population lives in the south, which is home to many different languages. Literacy rates in the south lag behind those of the north and in particular, the urban centers. Infrastructure is poor and undeveloped in the south, but President Fox recently initiated an economic 3

development plan, the Plan Puebla-Panama, for the region. This plan includes improvements for infrastructure (roads, gas, electricity, industrial zones, etc.) as well as investment incentives. Large Cities are characterized by American-style entrepreneurial development, and some small businesses have been able to grow into powerful corporations. The privatization of industries has given the economic communities in the cities autonomy previously unrealized. There is a higher level of education in the cities, with a literacy rate in some cases approaching 100 percent. The sprawl of the cities includes crowded slums, where proper infrastructure is lacking and poverty is commonplace. Investment and Trade In addition to NAFTA, Mexico also has trade agreements with the European Union, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Israel. It has other partially free trade agreements with Chile, Costa Rica, Bolivia, Colombia, Venezuela, and Uruguay. Terms and Definitions: The Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) This is a free trade zone for the entire Western Hemisphere. It was conceived in 1994, with full implementation a goal by 2005. Generally regarded as an extension of NAFTA, the plan has many opponents, and even its proponents are skeptical that it will be realized by 2005.

In Mexico, there is a Value Added Tax (VAT) of 15 percent on all goods and services. Exports are exempt from this tax, and the government reimburses companies for the VAT paid in the production of their exports. Imports have a VAT of 10 percent, which is charged on the value of the import combined with its import duties. FYI Mexico has the lowest importation tax rate in the region. For example, Brazil has a VAT on imports of 15 percent or more, whereas the VAT from other countries in Latin America ranges from 20 to 35 percent.

After the United States, Mexico's imports come mainly from Japan and Germany, followed by Canada and China. Mexico imports more goods and services from the United States than do all other Latin American countries combined. This, together with NAFTA, has led to a relaxed custom policy, where 85% of U.S. goods can now enter Mexico duty-free. Some goods like agricultural products and finished vehicles face a tariff between 5 and 10 percent. Full implementation of NAFTA would result in completely duty-free imports from the United States by January 2009. E-Commerce Mexico has taken huge steps in the last few years to increase communications via phone, fax, and e-mail. However, Mexico's infrastructure is underdeveloped in regions like the south, and e-commerce in even its most developed cities is not comparable to that in the United States. The tele-density of Mexico remains poor, with 14.8 million telephone lines in service in April 2003 (only one phone line per seven people). Mobile phone use is on the rise, however, with two out of every ten people using mobile phones (2001). The deregulation of long-distance telecommunication companies has resulted in a beefed-up IT infrastructure, with a promise of improvements to come. You’ll need to do the majority of your business—marketing, buying, and selling—in person when you are in the south. 4

The Maquiladora Industry Maquiladoras are manufacturing plants or textile factories in Mexico. Maquiladoras produce items such as electronics, automobile parts, clothing, and appliances. Generally, foreign multinational corporations—mainly from the United States, but also from Europe and Asia— own these factories. This industry typically uses foreign materials to create an end product, which is then exported back to the original market. NAFTA made this process cheaper and easier, with the elimination of most customs fees. The maquiladora industry exists predominantly along the U.S. border, although the industry also exists in the south and on the Yucatan peninsula; it accounts for approximately six percent of GDP and employment. The industry takes advantage of low wages, skilled labor, and proximity to the United States. FYI As of January 2003, Mexico’s national minimum wage was MXN 41.53 (about USD 4) for a full day’s work.

Multinational corporations involved in labor-intensive products have the ability to manufacture inexpensively in these areas of Mexico, where there are good labor relationships, skilled labor, a stable government, and improved roads and airports for transport to the United States. In the last ten years, many organizations in the United States and elsewhere have produced negative reports concerning the working environment of the maquiladoras. At times, these organizations have referred to maquiladoras as “sweatshops”. Many multinational corporations have responded to domestic and international pressure concerning the issue, and they have improved the working conditions and pay scales for employees in the maquiladoras. FYI The Mexican Constitution prohibits children under the age of 14 from working.

President Fox's election campaign held a promise to expand the maquiladora industry in the south. This would provide more employment in the region and lessen the incentive to migrate to the north in search of work. If successful, this effort would improve U.S.—Mexico relations by reducing the incentive to migrate illegally into the United States.

PREPARING TO LEAVE Scheduling In planning your trip to Mexico, be aware that there are certain times of year when business is slow. As you may suspect, business slows in December, but in Mexico the season lasts longer than in the United States—avoid business trips from the second week of December until the third week of January. Summer vacations are typically taken sometime around the end of July or during August. Be aware that soccer games involving the national side and visits by prominent religious leaders will also put a wrench in your planning. Don’t plan on using Friday afternoons for any intensive business dealings: traffic is horrible on payday, which comes every other Friday. National holidays will prevent you from getting much done if they fall on a weekday. 5

National Holidays Holiday Año Nuevo (New Year’s Day) Día de la Constitutión (Constitution Day) Nacimiento de Benito Juarez (Birth of Benito Juarez) Día del Trabajo (Labor Day) Día de la Independencia (Independence Day) Día de la Revolución (Revolution Day) Day the new President assumes office Navidad (Christmas Day) * Every sixth year—next in 2006

Date 1 January 5 February 21 March 1 May 16 September 20 November 1 December 25 December

Visas and Documentation To enter Mexico, you must present proof of citizenship in the form of any one of the following: passport (recommended), certified U.S. birth certificate, Naturalization Certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Citizenship. If your proof of citizenship does not include a photo of yourself, make sure you have picture ID with you, too. FYI Voter registration cards, notarized affidavits, driver’s permits, and other similar documents are not sufficient proofs of citizenship.

If you are traveling to Mexico to sign contracts, buy or sell products or services, or engage in any activity that implies legal obligations from either party, you must also obtain a temporary business visa from the Mexican Embassy or a consulate. The cost is USD 25, and the visa is obtained the same day. According to Mexican law, if a person travels to Mexico as a tourist, any business deals signed and/or agreed upon will have no validity. This is most strictly adhered to when crossing the U.S.—Mexico border. Mexican businesses and even customs offices at airports in the interior often disregard this legal requirement, but you should make sure to obtain the business visa anyway. You should be aware that Mexican law requires Spanish translations of all legal documents, including notarized consent and court agreements. Again, this law may not be enforced, but it’s not worth taking any chances, partly because the provision of translated documents is considered a simple courtesy. If you arrive by air, you will be given two forms to fill out before landing. The first is a temporary visa (tourist visa), granting permission to stay up to 30 days. This form can be used in lieu of a temporary business visa if no formal business transactions will be taking place during your stay. If you plan on staying longer than 30 days, be sure and ask for the maximum entry of 180 days. You’ll need to fill out one of these forms, which you will present when you go through customs. In return, the customs officer will give you an official permit, which you will be asked to surrender when you leave Mexico. The second form concerns your baggage. Only one baggage form needs to be filled out for each family or traveling party. You will present this form to a customs agent as you exit the baggage claim area after picking up your bags. Make sure you bring with you a picture ID and a photocopy of your proof of citizenship. If you should lose your passport or visa when in Mexico, 6

you’ll contact the local police and the U.S. Embassy.

Customs Preparations If the product literature and samples you are bringing into Mexico has no commercial value, they will not be subject to import duties and may remain in Mexico permanently. To avoid problems, these items must be unfit for resale (marked or torn, for example). For best results, you should mark boxes with “Product Literature: Not for Resale” or “Demonstration: Not for Resale.” Be advised that small quantities (5-20) of product samples or brochures will rarely present you with any problems, but large quantities, even when marked, might be deemed questionable and taxed. If products have commercial value, be prepared to declare them at customs. These products are allowed to remain in Mexico only on a temporary basis, and if they are not properly declared, their entry will be considered fraudulent, and they will be subject to seizure by customs officials. You should consult with a Mexican Customs broker (your Mexican business associates will be able to put you in contact with one) before you leave, in order to arrange for the proper customs fees.

Immunizations, Prescriptions, and Health Insurance Prior to departing for Mexico, make sure your health insurance will be valid during your trip and will cover the expensive process of being evacuated from the country should you experience a serious accident or illness. Before traveling to Mexico make sure you are immunized against diphtheria, tetanus, polio, typhoid, hepatitis A and—depending on the area you will visit—yellow fever and malaria. Most insurance plans do not cover all of these immunizations, so be aware that you can get inexpensive immunizations at your local county health department. You can find information on suggested immunizations and travel warnings at http://www.cdc.gov/travel/camerica.htm and http://travel.state.gov/warnings_list.html. You should be aware that Mexico’s climate, humidity, and altitude are known to cause headaches and fatigue. These conditions cause what is known as thermal inversion during the winter months. Thermal inversion exacerbates the air pollution in the larger cities, especially Mexico City and Guadalajara. This represents a health risk for people with high blood pressure, anemia, or respiratory or cardiac problems. If these conditions apply to you, you should consult with a doctor before leaving. Although prescription medications can be obtained in Mexico, bring your own, along with vitamins and personal toiletries. A small supply shouldn’t cause problems at customs. You may also want to bring a small first-aid kit with common painkillers and anti-diarrheal medicine.

Money The peso is the Mexican unit of currency; however, U.S. dollars are commonly accepted by Mexican businesses, especially in major cities and resort areas. As shops and restaurants won’t give you the best or most current exchange rate, try to use banks or casas de cambio (exchange houses). Banks usually change money from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; the casas are open later and often offer quicker service. Get a small amount of Mexican currency before you leave the United States, in case you need some when you arrive and find the airport’s casa is closed (unlikely—they tend to operate extended hours—but possible). Major credit cards and travelers 7

checks are generally accepted throughout Mexico. Be prepared, however, to pay with cash in smaller businesses, restaurants, and stores. ATMs are widely available, especially in the major cities and tourist areas. Checklist One peso equals 100 centavos. The following are the denominations of Mexican currency: • Notes: 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, and 10 (pesos) • Coins: 20, 10, 5, 2, and 1 (pesos); 50, 20, 10, and 5 (centavos)

Things to Pack For air travel to Mexico, most airlines have a limit of two pieces of checked baggage and one piece of carry-on. If you are flying business or first class, sometimes the allowance is higher. Weight limits for checked baggage range from 50 to 75 lbs. You will need to check these limits, as they vary between carriers. Clothes Business dress and behavior in Mexico are traditional, formal, and conservative. Men should wear business suits with a collared shirt and tie and polished dress shoes. Women should dress professionally, wearing a nice blouse with an appropriate business suit. In recent years, it has become acceptable for women to wear pantsuits. A businesswoman in Mexico should avoid tight-fighting clothes, short or high-slitted skirts, and plunging necklines. Mexico’s weather, altitude, and terrain vary throughout the different regions. In general, the months from November to May make up the more temperate, drier season, while June through October is characterized by high temperatures and increasing rainfall. Be prepared to dress accordingly. During the summer months in Mexico City, for example, you should expect heavy rain everyday in the late afternoon—pack close-toed shoes and a trench coat if you will be in Mexico during this season. Regardless of the time of year and especially if you are planning on being in the tropical regions, bring an umbrella. Also, though the country in general experiences warm temperatures, it can often cool down at nights, and you might need a sweater or light jacket. Presentation Materials In the larger cities, you should be able to acquire equipment for your presentations without much trouble. Available equipment is comparable to what you might find in business settings in the United States. For example, even relatively small companies usually have a projector that you can connect to your laptop for presentations. This may not be the case in smaller cities, however. You should discuss your audiovisual needs with your Mexican contact in order to arrange for the use and set-up of these materials. Ask your Mexican contact how many people will be attending presentations and prepare your handouts accordingly. Remember that presentation materials prepared in both Spanish and English will be more effective and appreciated. Since many Mexican businesspeople have access to PCs, you might consider burning CDs with all product information, brochures (PDF format), and other handouts—this will save you production costs and your Mexican associates will appreciate the organization it offers them. If you decide to hand out CDs, be sure that you have hard copies of the important information as well. 8

Gifts Although it is not customary to present gifts to businesspeople in Mexico, a small souvenir from America will be appreciated. Gifts you could give include quality items with your company logo, unique souvenirs from your home region, fine wines, nice pens, and elegant cigarette lighters. Never ask what someone would like as a gift, as doing so might be offensive. Adapters You don’t need to worry about taking a voltage adapter or a transformer, as Mexico uses the same voltage (120V) and cycles (60) as the United States. Likewise, the outlets are the same as those you’re used to in the United States. To be on the safe side, you should bring a surge protector to protect your more sensitive and expensive electronic devices.

Business Cards Have business cards printed in Spanish on one side and English on the other. Since Mexican business is hierarchical and final decisions are typically made only by top executives, it is important to specify your rank clearly on your business card. You should bring plenty of cards, as Mexicans appreciate receiving them regardless of rank. In meetings, present your card first to your main contact or the highest-ranking individual.

Interpreters If no one in your group speaks Spanish fluently, you should engage a skilled translator. Note that the type and style of Spanish vary among Spanish-speaking countries, so to avoid confusion and misunderstandings hire a Mexican interpreter. Your Mexican hosts will most likely offer to make arrangements for an interpreter, if you let them know you’ll need one. Although many Mexicans speak English with varying degrees of fluency, you should not assume that all your Mexican counterparts will. You should learn a few basic Spanish phrases, as any attempt to speak the language shows respect for Mexican culture and will be appreciated. Common Phrases Spanish SEE

English Word/Phrase Yes

Si

No

No

NO

Hello

Hola

OH-lah

Goodbye

Adios

ah-dee-OHS

Please

Por favor

pohr fah-VOHR

Thank you

Gracias

GRAH-see-ahs

How are you?

Como esta?

KOH-moh eh-STAS?

Fine, thank you

Bien, gracias

bee-YEHN, GRAH-see-ahs

Mexico

México

MEH-hee-ko

United States

Los Estados Unidos

LOHS eh-STAH-dohs ooh-NEE-dohs

9

Pronunciation

Mobile Phones and Calling Plans Your U.S. cell phone will not work unless you have roaming arrangements for Mexico. Such arrangements, though often very expensive, can be made with Verizon Wireless and AT&T GSM phones. International phones from Sprint PCS and Nextel can be rented or purchased in either Mexico or the United States, but prices vary and it may not be worth the effort if you plan on staying only a short time. It would be worthwhile to look into AT&T (or comparable) calling cards that can be used all over the world. These cards list local toll-free numbers for various areas in Mexico, so that you will be charged only for a local call from your hotel room (hotel rates are exorbitant). Then you will either use pre-paid minutes or have to enter a credit card number for access.

Hotel Reservations Mexico offers a broad range of hotels and motels, particularly in larger cities like Mexico City. You’ll find many reputable four-star and five-star American and Canadian hotel chains, and reservations can be made via internet, phone, travel agencies, or fax. Tipping at hotels in Mexico is much like tipping in America. Generally, hotel staff such as porters and maids should be given a small tip. Additionally, if you discover while checking in that the hotel does not have a surcharge (this is rare but does occur), you should add a 15 to 20 percent tip at the end of your visit.

GETTING AROUND Transportation In most cases, your Mexican hosts will consider it a basic courtesy to take care of your transportation logistics while you are their guest. They will typically arrange for transportation to and from the airport, to your hotel, and to their offices; they might even arrange for sight seeing. In the rare occasions when your hosts will not be arranging your transportation, they will say so. It is not rude or presumptuous to ask in advance if they will be arranging your transportation. If you are in Mexico to visit more than one company and will be providing your own transportation, you will find licensed taxis the most convenient way to get around. Airport to Hotel If you need to find transportation from the airport to your hotel, your best option is to take a taxi. If you didn’t exchange money in the United States, do so before you leave the airport; that way you can pay for the taxi ride in pesos. If you need assistance with your baggage, most airports have porters (uniformed, so you’ll know they’re official) in the area past customs; for a tip, they will help you take your baggage to the taxi stand. Within the airport, you can purchase a taxi fare ticket from a licensed cab company, which entitles you to be carried to your destination. Prices are usually based on distance. If the taxi has a meter, your cost will be based on distance and, to a lesser extent, on time spent driving. If you don’t pre-purchase a ticket, tell the licensed taxi driver the hotel you’ll be staying in, and ask for an estimated cost before departing. All major airports have licensed taxis with 10

predetermined costs according to where you’re staying. It is not customary to tip taxi drivers if they don’t carry your bags for any distance. Taxis There are four types of taxis in Mexico: those working for a sitio (licensed taxi stand); street taxis (independent but still licensed taxis); Radio Taxis (twice as expensive as sitios and safer); and piratas (unlicensed and often dangerous taxis). There is a sitio at major business establishments in most major Mexican cities. FYI Drivers of sitio taxi usually understand some English and can give official receipts.

Always check the numbers on the license plate and make sure it has either an “L” for libre (for unaffiliated, licenses daxis) or an “S” (for sitio). Unlicensed taxis (about 30 percent, according to the Mexican Government’s estimates) can pose real dangers. A few foreign businesspeople who have unknowingly flagged down a pirata have been taken to a remote location, robbed, and deserted. Your customer or business partner can arrange for a licensed taxi to pick you up at their business location to take you to other destinations. Also, hotels usually have private taxis, which are also secure. These private taxis can be hired by the day, if you prefer to have your transportation secured for a longer period of time. Taxi fares are different in every city but, in general, are much lower than in the United States. Drivers should be tipped 10 percent only if they handle heavy bags. Keep small change for tips and short journeys, as drivers don’t carry much cash and can’t make change for large bills. Spotlight Women using public transportation should strictly follow guidelines for conservative dress and behavior. They should even refrain from making friendly conversation with fellow passengers or taxi drivers.

Rental Cars Renting a car may not be your best option, as rental rates tend to be high in Mexico and dealing with hectic and dense city traffic and parking is invariably exhausting. If you do decide to rent a vehicle, it is imperative that you purchase Mexican auto insurance, since your U.S. and credit card car rental insurance won’t cover you. Traffic laws are basically the same as in the United States but not always as strictly adhered to. Be alert and prepared for anything on the road (including pedestrians and, in rural areas, animals). If you park illegally, your license plates (perhaps even your car) may be impounded. If you are dealing with a police officer for any reason, do not offer bribes. You don’t want to run the risk of getting into trouble with the local authorities. FYI Gasoline is more expensive in Mexico than in the United States and is priced per liter.

Government-owned Pemex gas stations can be found everywhere in Mexico, but they accept only pesos. If you run into any trouble, the Angeles Verdes, or Green Angels, which are 11

operated by the Mexican Tourism Administration, offer free roadside assistance on highways (they should be tipped a few dollars) and sell car parts and fuel. Their 24-hour number is 01-555250-8221 or 01-55-5250-8555, ext. 314 (omit the 01-55 in Mexico City). FYI In an effort to reduce air pollution, Mexico City places restrictions on vehicular traffic according to the last digit of each vehicle’s license plate. For example, vehicles with license plates ending in 5 or 6 may not drive in Mexico City on Mondays.

Metro Mexico City and Monterrey both have metro systems. Mexico City’s is extensive and inexpensive (approximately USD 0.15 per ride) but can be very crowded (more than five million people ride it every day). For security reasons, business travelers are generally discouraged from taking the metro. Many affluent Mexicans consider it unsafe, and Mexican businesspeople will often be surprised if you use it. They tend to drive their own cars (an important status symbol in Mexico) or take sitio taxis. However, if you do take the metro, be sensible: don’t wear flashy clothing or jewelry, or carry fancy briefcases; don’t act in a way that will call attention to yourself; and immediately bring attention to someone making unwanted advances. Monterrey’s metro system is much less extensive. FYI The two front cars of the metro are theoretically reserved for women and children; in practice, this rule is not strictly obeyed.

Buses Traveling by bus during the daytime is safe, cheap, and at times uncomfortable (crowded and hot). As in the United States, bus stops are marked, and the destinations are posted on the front of the bus. When you near your stop, ring the bell by the back door or, if there isn’t one, shout baja (“BA-hah”—down). Another option is colectivos, also called peseros, which are Volkswagen vans that drop you off wherever you want along a fixed route. Terms and Definitions: Abono de transporte An abono de transporte is a ticket valid for buses, trolleys, and the metro.

If you are traveling out of town, book a one-way ticket (all that’s available) on a firstclass bus such as De lujo, Ejecutivo, or Plus. You must reserve a seat at least one day in advance. These first-class buses are usually on-time, travel on modern toll roads, and have amenities such as reclining seats, air conditioning, toilets, and snacks and beverages. You probably won’t end up taking a train in Mexico, since these buses are a better option in every respect.

Communication The communications industry has grown rapidly in Mexico in recent years, partly as a result of the privatization of state-owned companies. In some cases, these companies still dominate their respective markets, but competition has increased, and the industry now allows international competition. 12

Telephone In recent years, Mexico's phone companies have attempted to become more modern and technologically advanced. However, major problems remain. There aren’t enough phone lines, public phones are often out of order, the number of digits in phone numbers varies from city to city, connections are often scratchy, and equipment tends to be old and worn out. FYI There is a difference between normal phones and Ladatel phones. Ladatel phones, which can be recognized by the Ladatel logo, are found everywhere and require a different procedure for calling. They accept credit or Ladatel cards, and, occasionally, coins. International Dialing Codes for Mexico and the United States (Using Normal Phones) Mexico to 00 + 1+ 3-digit area code + (International access code) (U.S.’s country code) U.S. 7-digit local number Within Dial: 01 (Domestic access code) Mexico 2/3-digit area code + 7/8-digit local number U.S. to 011 + 52 + (International access code) (Mexico’s country code) Mexico

Station to Station Long Distance Domestic Person to Person Long Distance Domestic Station to Station International (U.S. or Canada) Person to Person International (U.S. or Canada) International Direct Dialing

Calls Using a Ladatel Phone 91 + 92 + 95 +

Country Code +

96 +

Country Code +

98 +

Country Code +

Area Code +

Local Number

Since 80 percent of public phones no longer accept coins, the best way to communicate via public phone is by using a phone card. These can be purchased at gas stations, hotel gift shops, retail shops, train stations, airports, and grocery stores. They are used in pay telephones like regular currency, and sold in incremental values. Insert them into the phone directly, or dial the code written on the back. Another option is to dial published AT&T toll-free access numbers and tap into the AT&T system. Cellular phones are becoming more and more commonplace in Mexico. In 2001, there were 216.8 mobile phones per 1,000 people. To dial a cell phone number, always start with 044 plus the 10 digit numbers for local calls. If you are dialing long distance to a cell phone, don’t dial the 044 but rather the area code plus the cell number. E-mail and Fax Mexican businesses are becoming increasingly computer-oriented. Business transactions are often done electronically. If you’ll be working with someone extensively and frequently, it is common to save on phone calls by using internet messenger services—such as AOL, MSN or Yahoo—to communicate. 13

Internet cafes (which have become common social gathering places for teenagers and young adults) are easily found, especially in major cities. Fax machines are available in hotels, major post offices, and business centers. Prices to e-mail and fax vary; internet cafes in major cities are cheap, averaging USD 2 per hour, while in undeveloped areas the use of fax and internet can be expensive. Keep in mind that Mexico's phone system is not as developed as in the United States, so anticipate delays with both faxing and e-mailing. Mail If you need to mail something during your visit to Mexico, you have a variety of options. In addition to the Mexican Postal Service (Servicio Postal Mexicano), DHL, and UPS are available in urban areas. There are also similar Mexican shipping services (e.g., Estafeta, MexPost); these are faster and more reliable than the Mexican Postal Service and should be used for deliveries within Mexico. If you need to send something international, you should use Fed-Ex or a similar service, one that tracks shipments.

KEEPING SAFE AND WELL Medical Treatment While some medical facilities in Mexico’s larger urban areas are world class, access to quality medical care is limited in remote areas and islands. Many generic prescription drugs are available in Mexico without a prescription and may be less expensive than in the United States. Make sure you know the brand and generic names for your prescriptions; Mexican pharmacists should then be able to help you get what you need. Mexico adheres to international pharmaceutical standards, and—as long as you get your prescriptions from an established pharmacy—you should consider them safe.

Food, Drink, and Cigarettes Tap water is generally unsafe, so use bottled water for drinking, brushing your teeth, and washing fresh fruits and vegetables. Always ask for bottled water when eating in restaurants, and refrain from buying food or open beverages from street vendors. Refrain, too, from using ice in your cold beverages when you’re not certain about the safety of the water. While Mexico doesn’t have any laws against smoking in public buildings, many office buildings prohibit it. If they don’t, then smoking in offices or conference rooms is quite common. There are both “Smoking” and “Non-Smoking” sections in restaurants, but there is no real partitioning, and second-hand smoke is prevalent. If you are with colleagues who smoke, you should ask if they mind being seated in the non-smoking section; in most cases they will be happy to cater to your wishes.

Natural Disasters Several regions of Mexico have been affected by natural disasters in the past few decades. Hurricanes, windstorms, and flooding threaten the coastal regions bordering the Gulf of Mexico and, to a lesser extent, the coastal regions of the Pacific. Natural disasters are most common during the months of August to October. In September 2002, Hurricane Isidore hit Merida, on the Yucatan peninsula, killing four and severely damaging the area’s infrastructure. 14

Earthquakes pose a serious threat to much of Mexico, as many tectonic plates meet within its territory. In the last few years, there have been earthquakes in Oaxaca, Michoacan, Puebla, Guerrero, and in the Gulf of California. Mexico City is especially vulnerable to earthquakes, and the entire city is equipped with an advanced seismic warning system. This system is designed to warn residents a few minutes before the effects of the earthquake are felt.

Terrorism Terrorism in Mexico is largely domestic, and foreigners have not been targeted. Nonetheless, to avoid getting caught in domestic disputes, the U.S. State Department recommends you use caution when traveling to the Mexican states of Chiapas, Guerrero, and Oaxaca. While two insurgent groups operate in Guerrero and Oaxaca, terrorist activity has been minimal of late, and these states are known more for their tourism than their terrorism. This is not the case in Chiapas, however, where the Zapatista National Liberation Army (EZLN) operates. This organization is an armed rebel group fighting for indigenous rights. Violence associated with the Zapatista movement flared up in 1994 when some of its members protested NAFTA and the government’s privatization of communal land. Recently, President Fox has opened up a dialogue with this group, and hostilities have decreased significantly. Check with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate before entering any of these areas.

Violent Crime Violent crime in Mexico is a problem, especially in Mexico City, Tijuana, Ciudad Juarez, and other major metropolitan areas. Although Americans are not usually the targets, they have occasionally been victims of drug-related violence in border cities. At times, this violence has occurred during the day at popular intersections. It has also occurred in bars and nightclubs, particularly in resort cities, where there have been reports of rapes, druggings, and robberies. You should be aware that kidnapping occurs in Mexico; in 2002 four Americans were kidnapped in Nuevo Laredo. Highway assault is also a problem. To avoid it, travel as much as possible during the day. If you are driving yourself, take toll (cuota) roads as much as possible; crime is much more likely to occur on the free (libre) roads. If you are using public transportation, take first-class transportation whenever possible, and be particularly careful if you are traveling by bus between Oaxaca and Guerrero or in the state of Chiapas. Another major type of crime surrounding transportation involves taxis. Passengers have been beaten, shot, robbed and sexually assaulted. To avoid this, never hail a taxi on the street or in front of restaurants, nightclubs or theaters. Instead, use only taxis that you have called for. Be sure to get the name of the driver and the license plate number from the dispatcher. Your business partner’s receptionist or assistant or the host/hostess of the establishment will gladly call and make these arrangements for you. Alternatively, you can use a sitio taxi. Most commercial areas have sitio booths with licensed taxis and drivers. Just make sure the driver has a taxi license. Spotlight American women in Mexico should never travel alone at night and, if possible, not during the day either. It is generally safe for women to take taxis during the day, but the metro poses dangers. Even when in a group, women should avoid using the metro during peak hours (morning and late afternoon/evening). It is so crowded that it is difficult to maintain personal space.

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Theft In terms of preventing thefts, all the usual guidelines apply: avoid walking or driving alone, especially at night; don’t carry valuable items or wear expensive clothes or jewelry; and hold onto your laptops, mobile phones, and briefcases—even in places that feel secure. While out and about, place valuables in your hotel’s safe, and carry only what money you need. Be careful accessing ATMs; if possible, use only those inside commercial centers or in your hotel.

Legal Rights and Obligations Mexican law, while recognizing many civil and legal rights, still does not afford the same protections granted to you in the United States. Probably the most significant difference between Mexican and U.S. law involves basic legal philosophy. American law is based on the assumption that you are innocent until proven guilty. According to Mexican law, you are guilty until proven innocent. Persons committing illegal acts can be prosecuted and punished to the full degree, regardless of citizenship. Penalties for crimes in Mexico are sometimes more severe than in the United States, and while certain rights and freedoms are technically guaranteed by the Mexican Constitution, they are not always protected in practice. For example, the law requires that trial and sentencing for any crime carrying at least a two-year penalty occur within a year of arrest. In practice, this doesn’t always happen. Trial occurs more by judge than by jury, although the accused does have the right to seek representation, confront accusers, and have a public trial.

MAKING A GOOD IMPRESSION Machismo and Marianismo When you are doing business in Mexico, it is important to understand gender relations, and they are best understood through the dual concepts of machismo and marianismo. Machismo, the influence of which is felt throughout Latin America, refers to the strength, courage, self-confidence, and masculinity expected from men. The female counterpart, marianismo, is associated particularly with Mexican culture. It refers to the expectation that women be humble, modest, feminine, and virtuous—traits attributed to Jesus’ mother, Mary. These dual concepts reflect an interesting gender dynamic in Mexican business culture. Mexicans will often show a special deference to women executives, sometimes but by no means always in a condescending way. Even though some Mexican men may feel intimidated by female executives, a businesswoman should make her rank clear right from the beginning. She should also present herself as a “no-nonsense” sort of woman, avoiding (at least at first) excessive chat about her family or human-interest stories. Other common-sense measures—like not wearing revealing, tight-fighting, or flashy clothes or accepting invitations to one-on-one meetings outside the workplace—apply here, as anywhere.

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Mexicans’ Perception of Americans Many Mexican businesspeople have dealt with businesspeople from the United States, and most under 40 received their education at top private Mexican Universities, which typically involve a year’s study in the United States or Europe. Accordingly, their expectations of what Americans are like tend to be based in fact and experience, rather than movies and television. In general, Mexicans respect businesspeople from the United States. Tourists are treated with less respect, so be sure not to dress or act like one. Speaking Spanish will also garner respect. Mexicans generally regard Americans as overly work-oriented and too willing to let personal relationships take a backseat to business. They consider themselves and Mexican society as a whole very differently: in Mexico, the family is the focus of social life and has a profound influence on business dealings. So realize that what may appear to you as a lack of hard work or industriousness on the part of your Mexican colleagues is more likely a conscious choice to sacrifice business objectives for the good of the family. If you don’t bear this in mind, you risk confirming some of Mexicans’ most negative perceptions about Americans, particularly American businesspeople. FYI Because of the importance of family in Mexico, family connections are also important and to a certain degree people are judged on the basis of their family background.

Conversation Because Mexicans value the establishment of personal relationships, expect conversations to be of a fairly personal nature. Mexicans will be open about their personal lives and will expect you to be, too. Families are a very common topic of conversation; you should always feel free to talk about (and show pictures of) your own family and inquire about (and ask to see pictures of) your counterparts’. FYI Personal greetings and general social expressions are extremely important. While it may seem elementary, it is essential to say hello, goodbye, thank you, etc. at the appropriate times.

Since many Mexican businesspeople are well traveled, asking about places they have visited in the United States is another good way to break the ice. Just remember to avoid always comparing Mexico with the United States, particularly in a way that might be perceived to denigrate Mexico. Other appropriate topics of conversation include Mexican history and culture; landscape; the weather; universities attended and courses of study; and sports (fútbol, or soccer, in particular). Avoid discussing religion, politics, U.S. imperialism (e.g., the Mexican-American War), and don’t criticize Mexico or its food and drink. Don't talk too loudly, either, or dominate the conversation. FYI Mexico is also a part of North America, making Mexicans Americans and North Americans in a geographic sense. This can sometimes be a sensitive issue, and Americans should be careful in referring to themselves as Americans or North Americans in an exclusionary manner.

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Body Language Mexicans generally converse between 18 and 21 inches apart (substantially closer than is customary in the United States, where speakers sometimes stand six feet apart). To avoid giving offense or appearing unfriendly, resist the urge to step back and re-establish what would be for you a more comfortable space. There’s little point stepping back anyhow because Mexicans will likely step forward once again in attempt to decrease the distance. Handshakes are the appropriate way of beginning and ending a meeting and of cementing an agreement. Males should be prepared for a hug from their Mexican associates by the second or third meeting and even to walk arm in arm with them. Mexicans feel that physical contact helps establish and reveal trust in a relationship. If you pull away, you may undermine that trust. FYI Eye contact is less frequent in Mexico—what Americans might consider to be normal eye contact might be seen by Mexicans as staring.

Gestures to avoid include chewing gum, stretching in public, talking to people with your feet on the table or your hands clasped behind your neck, and slapping papers down in front of people. If you do any of these, you will be regarded as ill mannered, perhaps even deliberately insulting. Finally, men should be aware that putting their hands on their hips may suggest a challenge and that they should, while in public, refrain from putting their hands in their pockets. Spotlight Mexican men often embrace each other in an abrazo, a friendly hug with a slap on the back, followed by a handshake. This gesture suggests intimacy and general friendliness. Spotlight Women tend to greet each other with a handshake or a pat on the shoulder or arm, while close friends kiss each other on the cheek. Women may also kiss and be kissed by their male associates; this does not imply romantic involvement.

Gift-giving Although gifts are not expected in a Mexican business situation, they are appreciated. However, avoid giving very expensive gifts (they may be interpreted as bribery) and flowers.

Business Entertainment Entertainment outside of the office most frequently consists of going to restaurants. If your stay includes weekends, you might have the opportunity to do some sightseeing. Mexico has a rich culture and heritage, and there are many historic sites you will find interesting. Spotlight Women should never invite a man to a meal unless an associate or his wife will accompany him. If he isn’t, the offer might be taken for a romantic come-on.

Dining You will find that business breakfasts and lunches, often lengthy, are a popular means of discussing a variety of topics and getting to know your business colleagues. Breakfast meetings, 18

which can start as early as 7:00 a.m., are generally more focused on business, whereas lunch meetings tend to be more social. Dinner is typically eaten in the later evening hours—perhaps not until 8:00 p.m.—and can last three to four hours. At meals and in meetings throughout the day, you will be asked if you would like anything to drink. It is usually an open-ended question, so there’s no need to accept something you normally wouldn’t like. Mexicans drink a lot of coffee, and they drink it black and strong. Juice is more common than soda, and alcohol is popular in dining settings. When drinking alcohol, toasts are fairly common, but let your host make the first one. If you cannot or would prefer not to take something that is offered, politely explain that you would rather have something else. Not all Mexicans like coffee or drink alcohol, so you will not be seen as an oddity if you prefer something else. Paying for Meals When dining out, it is not customary to split the bill; the oldest or highest-ranking person in the inviting party generally picks up the tab. You are welcome to return the favor by inviting your Mexican associates out to another meal. Understand that even vaguely worded proposals such as “Let’s go eat lunch” or “Why don’t we have dinner together tomorrow night?” are seen as invitations, and you will be expected to pay. (This goes for other suggestions, as well, such as “Why don’t you come visit me in New York?”) You must ask for the bill once you are ready to pay (the waiter will not bring it before then), and make sure you place the payment directly into the waiter’s hand. Leaving money on a table or counter is thought to show contempt for the service. Spotlight While it’s not customary for a woman to pay, she can most easily get around this problem by inviting her Mexican colleagues to her hotel restaurant and having the meal billed to her room.

Table Manners Some important differences in table etiquette exist between Mexico and the United States. Unlike Americans, Mexicans do not move their forks from their right hand to their left while eating. Instead, the knife remains in the right hand (or left for the left-handed) and the fork in the left. Mistakes like using the wrong utensil for a particular course can constitute something of a faux pas but shouldn’t be treated too seriously. There are a few other helpful rules: napkins should remain neatly on the table, not placed in the lap; elbows should not be placed on the table; chairs should not be tilted back; and, during the meal, men should not take their jackets off unless it is a particularly warm season, in which case they should follow the lead of their Mexican associates. Finally, be aware that seating order at the table is related to hierarchy. Being placed at the head of the table is a particular honor, so if your host puts you there, make sure to recognize the honor by thanking him or her. When there are only two of you eating at a restaurant, it is customary for you to sit next to, not opposite, one another. In the Mexican Home If you are invited to a colleague’s home for a meal, consider it a sign of growing friendship and trust. Do not expect to discuss business on such occasions, and bring a small gift 19

to thank your host for the hospitality. Make sure you thank your host and his or her spouse several times.

DOING BUSINESS The Workweek There is a maximum 48-hour workweek in Mexico, but most companies operate within a 40-to-45 hour workweek. Business hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, but in large cities work often starts between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. and goes as late as 8:00 p.m. Lunch typically lasts between 30 minutes and one hour in large cities and longer— sometimes considerably longer—in rural areas. Lunch hours are only flexible for Trabajadores de Confianza (“Trusted Employees”), while factory employees have a set lunch break. Employees in management positions are expected to work long hours in order to get a project done. Terms and Definitions: Trabajadores de Confianza Normally, employees who are involved in management, supervision, inspection, direction, and surveillance are hired as Trusted Employees (Trabajadores de Confianza). Having this status makes them ineligible to join regular workers’ unions (they are only allowed to form their own unions) and to receive overtime pay.

Industrial Relations Mexican law allows any company with over 20 employees to unionize. The renegotiation of union contracts occurs once every two years, and during the negotiations employees have the right to strike. Unions have the right to strike on behalf of other unions, which opens the possibility of nationwide strikes. However, strikes are not common in Mexico. Laws for overtime pay are generous, requiring payment of 200 percent of standard pay for the first nine hours over the maximum 48, and 300 percent for any overtime beyond that. Employers must also pay 300 percent of standard wages for work performed on any of Mexico’s seven legal holidays. As a holiday bonus, it is also common for companies to pay an extra month’s salary in December.

Introductions When meeting new people, make sure to greet each person individually, actually saying hello (just smiling is considered disrespectful). A strict hierarchy is observed within the Mexican business culture, with lower-level team members sometimes not even being introduced to the higher-level management and decision-makers. Your team members may be matched up and even seated with Mexican team members according to rank. So be sure to establish your rank from the beginning through business cards that list honors, titles, or degrees you have received and, where possible, dropping the names of influential people you have worked with (do this without swagger and, when possible, with humor). Unless explicitly invited to do otherwise, you should always use professional titles in addressing both your own colleagues and your Mexican associates. Typically, the title Licenciado—which refers to one who has received a bachelor’s degree—is appropriate for 20

addressing business colleagues. Ingeniero (Engineer), Doctor (medical or PhD), Profesor, and Abogado (Lawyer) are also frequently used titles. Mexican surnames consist of two names, the father’s first and then the mother’s. In introductions, the mother’s name is rarely used, but it is always used in business cards or official documents. Never use first names unless invited to do so. If you are addressing someone without a title, use Señor (Mr.), Señora (Mrs.), or Señorita (Miss), followed by the first surname. When you use Señorita depends more on the age of the woman you are addressing than her marital status. If you want to show special deference to an older male colleague, the use of “Don” as a title is one of great respect and, to a degree, one of endearment. FYI In writing, Mexicans may spell out their first surname and abbreviate their second with a single letter.

Presentations Your presentations should be forceful, clear, and grammatically and aesthetically impeccable. Visual aids are an integral part of Mexican business and should be presented in both Spanish and English. Always pass out handouts; dropping them on the table in front of people is considered impolite.

Negotiations Although punctuality is not insisted on for social occasions, it is valued highly in business negotiations. So always arrive on time for meetings; schedule business meetings several weeks ahead; and confirm appointments a few days beforehand. However, be aware that time is more flexible than in the United States, and last-minute changes are always a possibility. Networking is essential for doing business in Mexico, and the higher up your connections are, the better. Establishing personal relationships will generate trust and facilitate business negotiations. Accept all invitations to business breakfasts or lunches, as these are good opportunities for getting to know your Mexican counterparts. Mexicans consider it impolite to turn people down explicitly, so it is safe to assume that the absence of a clear response is generally a sign of lack of interest. It may take you some time to recognize the indirect approach; in the meantime, recognize that phrases like “maybe” and “not now” may actually mean “no.” If you get these responses, you may want to push the issue once or twice, but if the answers are still indefinite, drop it and plan accordingly. Of course, you’ve got to strike a balance here. Avoid appearing overly direct and pushy, but make sure that your position is clear before moving on. Mexicans will expect more directness from you, as many of them have dealt extensively with American businesspeople. When you must refuse an offer, do so politely, and offer alternatives. Negotiations in Mexico are often lengthy, and it will benefit you to resist the temptation to rush things. Be prepared for more bargaining than you are used to in the United States, and don't lay out all your bargaining tools at the beginning of negotiations. Mexicans sometimes prefer to complete negotiations on relatively small projects before moving on to bigger ones. As in the United States, make sure to have written final agreements, and keep records of the negotiations. Having extra copies of important business and personal documents will save you time. You may need several photocopies of your passport to identify yourself when finalizing a deal. In addition, the U.S. Department of Commerce recommends consulting with 21

legal counsel before entering into a business agreement with Mexican partners. The U.S. Commercial Service office at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City can provide a list of qualified attorneys. You can generally “localize” a U.S. contract for use in Mexico with a few basic changes, after consulting with a Mexican attorney.

Giving Feedback If you give feedback to your Mexican colleagues, clearly explain why you are doing so, as Mexicans are not used to receiving unsolicited feedback. Any feedback you receive will likely be indirect, particularly if it is negative.

DEPARTING AND FOLLOWING UP Airport Formalities Each U.S. resident may bring back USD 400 worth of articles duty-free once every 30 days (subject to limitations on liquors, cigarettes, and cigars). It is unlawful to bring back most fresh fruits and vegetables, uncooked poultry and pork, exotic animal furs and hides, and live birds. For a complete list, you can talk with U.S. Customs officials before leaving for Mexico or visit http://www.citi-guide.com/mexico/m-immigration.asp or http://www.traveldocs.com/mx/customs.htm. Customs Duty-Free Allowances and Restrictions (Partial List) Tobacco 400 Cigarettes or 50 Cigars or 250g of Tobacco Liquor 3 Bottles of Wine or Liquor Perfume Reasonable amount for personal use Cameras 2 Photo, Movie, or Video Film 12 Rolls or Video Cassettes Other Goods up to the value of US$400

Following Up Be sure to send your hosts a thank you card or email either directly upon your return home or even before you leave Mexico. Send by e-mail or express mail any extra presentation materials or handouts they have requested. If you do not have access in Mexico to documents that your Mexican colleagues would find useful, arrange to have them sent from your office in the United States, or send them as soon as you return.

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USEFUL CONTACTS U.S Department of Commerce 1401 Constitution Avenue, NW Washington, D.C. 20230 (202) 482-2000 http://www.commerce.gov/ National Institute of Standards and Technology (division of Dept. of Commerce) 100 Bureau Drive, Stop 3460 Gaithersburg, MD 20899-3460 (301) 975-6478) http://www.nist.gov/

U.S. State Department 2201 C Street NW Washington, D.C. 20520 (202) 647-4000 http://www.state.gov/ Overseas Citizens Services 24-hour hotline (service of State Dept.) (202) 647-5225 Travel Warnings & Consular Information Sheets (service of State Dept.) http://travel.state.gov/travel_warnings.html

United States Embassy toMexico Paseo de la Reforma 305, Colonia Cuauhtemoc, Mexico City 011-52-55-5080-2000 http://www.usembassy-mexico.gov/emenu.html

Embassy of Mexico in the United States 1911 Pennsylvania Ave. N.W. Washington, D.C. 20006 (202) 728 - 1600 http://www.sre.gob.mx/eua/

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