Santamarina y Steta advises a strong client portfolio across the automotive, technology, pharmaceuticals, and retail sectors, offering strategic guidance on international trade operations, customs regulations and tax proceedings. The team has particular expertise in tariff classification, import permits, VAT certifications, and IMMEX authorisations. Co-head Alejandro Luna possesses an advisory focus on supply chains, customs matters, and product import and export strategies. Mariano Calderón is the other co-head, who has seasoned experience advising domestic and international clients on the tax aspects of operations, as well as handling administrative procedures and investigations. The practice benefits from robust associate support, with notable names including Michel Zelaya and Daniel Sosa, both specialising in customs-related administrative proceedings.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Michel Zelaya stands out for his great technical rigour, practical approach, and client-centricity. He is proactive, clear in his recommendations, and always solution-oriented. A trusted reference in foreign trade and customs in Mexico.'
- 'Santamarina & Steta's international trade and customs practice is distinguished by its deep technical knowledge, strategic focus, and client-centricity. It is a reliable, proactive, and highly skilled team.'
Key clients
- Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corporation (Wabtec Corporation)
- General Motors
- ITW Food Equipment Group
- General Motors de Mexico
- Wabtec Manufacturing Mexico
- Siemens Energy
- Wabtec de Mexico
- Thompson Hine
- Martinrea International
- Aisin World Corp. of America
- Kruger Family Industries
- Locomotive Manufacturing and Services
Work highlights
Advised Durakon Mexicana, S.A. de C.V., a subsidiary of Penda Corporation (Kruger) and world-market leader in custom thermoforming solutions, on its proceedings before the Mexican Tax Administration Service.
Advised Hyundai Transys Mexico Powertrain, S. de R.L. de C.V., Bartlett LP, Magneto & Diesel Injector Service, Inc., H.B. Fuller Company, Fras-le, SA, Carlyle Group, Ames Watson, among others, on the acquisition of target companies.
Advised Worthington, Chevron and Aisin on highly complex matters concerning the obtaining of permits to import petroleum products or hydrocarbons and the related proceedings before the Ministry of Energy.
Lawyers
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Alejandro Luna; Mariano Calderón
Other key lawyers
Michel Zelaya; Daniel Sosa