Published on March 13, 2026
Do you know how much you will pay to play music in your business? Here is all the information.
Using music in a commercial space is one of the most effective strategies to enhance customer experience. However, the public performance of musical works carries legal responsibilities in Mexico. The Sociedad de Autores y Compositores de México (SACM) is the entity in charge of managing these royalties. To avoid penalties, it is essential to understand how these payments are calculated.
Main Fee Concepts and Rates
Here is a summary of the most common concepts and calculation bases established in the SACM tariff guide:
Business Type / Service | Calculation Base or Suggested Fee |
Restaurants, Bars, and Canteens | Per CANIRAC agreement (Based on category and capacity). |
Radio (Commercialization) | 2.75% of monthly advertising revenue. |
Internet Radio | Fixed fee of 25 UDAs per month. |
Television (Cable & Satellite) | 1.50% per signal or system. |
Hotels and Motels | Fee based on number of rooms and category. |
Public Events & Transmissions | Between 2% and 3% of revenue depending on public access. |
Gyms and Recreational Centers | Fixed fees based on square footage or number of users. |
The Importance of Self-Classification
The SACM scheme is not intended to be a burden but a fair payment for the value music brings to your establishment. The official document highlights the importance of “Self-Classification.” This means that as a business owner, you can identify your exact sector and benefit from existing agreements with chambers such as CANIRAC or CIRT.
Paying these fees not only protects you from fines during inspections but also ensures that songwriters receive fair compensation. The rates are designed to be equitable: while a large concert pays a percentage of ticket sales, a small business can have a much more affordable fixed fee.
Managing copyright can seem complex, but compliance is a fundamental step for your company’s legal health. Do not risk your operation due to a lack of information.
Do you need help classifying your business or managing your payments to SACM? At Merida IP, we are specialists in intellectual property and provide the necessary guidance to regularize your situation efficiently.
Contact us today at Merida IP and bring harmony to your business!
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