One year after its launch, ARS has enabled the harvesting and delivery of more than 158,000 tons of agave to tequila factories.
Zapopan, Jalisco, October 30, 2025. — One year after its launch, the Socially Responsible Agave (ARS) certification mark continues to strengthen the direct link between agave and tequila producers, recognizing the work of traditional agave growers and promoting sustainable practices throughout the Production Chain.
The ARS certification call was launched in October 2024 and is part of the initiatives promoted by the Tequila Regulatory Council (CRT), in coordination with the National Chamber of the Tequila Industry (CNIT) and federal and state governments, to strengthen strategic planning for agave cultivation and consolidate the sector’s sustainability.
“ARS has been a major joint effort among all sectors that make up the Agave–Tequila Production Chain. Over this past year, I can report that more than 1,300 agave growers are now certified, more than 158,000 tons of agave have been harvested and delivered to tequila factories, and 148 companies are already participating in this program,” highlighted Alexis Álvarez, Head of Agricultural Certification at the CRT.
Agave Responsable Social is a reality thanks to the commitment and compliance of agave growers who work sustainably, fulfill their tax obligations, and register their plantations properly and on time.
“Along with recognizing traditional agave growers, encouraging direct links between producers, and promoting contract farming, ARS fosters the professionalization of the primary sector. Recently, 150 agave growers participated in a workshop on regenerative agriculture, learning sustainable farming practices that contribute to soil conservation and ecosystem health,” added Alexis Álvarez.
For the Tequila Regulatory Council, strategic planning for agave cultivation is a shared effort among all sectors of the tequila agroindustry. Therefore, actions will continue to be promoted to strengthen technical knowledge and decision-making among producers in the municipalities located within the territory of the Tequila Appellation of Origin.
To learn more:
Who can obtain the ARS certification mark?
The Agave Responsable Social (ARS) certification mark is free of charge and is intended for agave producers who meet the following requirements:
➢ Have an inventory of no more than 100,000 agave plants.
➢ Have begun their registration as an agave producer between 1994 and 2017.
➢ Be up to date with their tax obligations (registered with the SAT).
➢ Have their ARA Compatibility Report, certifying that their plantations have not caused deforestation.
How and where to register?
If you meet the requirements, bring your INE (official ID) and your Tax Status Certificate to any office of the Tequila Regulatory Council.
For more information about Agave Responsable Social (ARS), visit www.crt.org.mx check the CRT’s social media (Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok), or call 33 10 02 1910 or 33 10 02 1954.