612.112/76: Telegram
The Ambassador in Mexico (Warren) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 30—1:03 a.m.]
113. Discussed matter customs duties with Foreign Minister yesterday. He confirmed position that Mexican Government would not insist upon repayment of customs duties already paid to de facto authorities in control of ports. …
I raised the question of duplicate tax payments to state authorities. He replied that it would not be the policy of the Mexican Government to insist upon repayment of state taxes already paid to de facto authorities. He said that the Secretary of the Interior would advise the state authorities to adhere to this rule. I made the suggestion that a general statement be issued by the President to the effect that if such taxes had been paid to the de facto authorities they would not have to be repaid. They are reluctant to assume such a bold position in a matter which they believe falls within the rights of the respective states. However, the Government will maintain the general policy set forth above and will request the state authorities not to collect taxes already paid to the de facto authorities.