Mexico
General Water Law and amendments to the National Water Law: new rules now in force
On December 11, 2025, the Official Gazette of the Federation published the decree enacting the General Water Law and amending, supplementing, and repealing various provisions of the National Water Law (the “Water Reform”), establishing a new legal framework for water management in Mexico. The reform fulfills the constitutional mandate to protect and develop the eighth paragraph of Article 4 of the Mexican Constitution, which recognizes the fundamental right to access, use, and sanitation of water for personal and domestic consumption.
Key aspects
- New constitutional and human rights approach: The General Water Law (“LGA”) details and enforces the human right to water and reorganizes federal, state, and municipal responsibilities.
- Structural reform of the National Water Law: Amendments to the National Water Law (“LAN”) strengthen the National Water Commission (“CONAGUA”) and create a reserve fund for national waters.
- Restrictions on transfers of concessions and stricter sanctions regime: The LAN now prohibits transferring water concession and assignment titles, introduces a regulated reassignment process, and tightens administrative and criminal sanctions.
- New obligations and penalties: The reform adds obligations on water quality, sanitation, reuse, and pollution control, with higher penalties for violations.