Mexican traveling to Tokyo with one stop in Shanghai airport (19h 40min)

I read that for a VISA application ''Passports must be valid for at least 6 months on the date of entry'' so if my passport doesn't cover this requirement - my new passport is in process but I don't know when I will get it. Does this situation affect the 72-hour free Transit? I mean Do I need the 6 months to get enjoy the freeTransit. Even If I have a transit flight (few hours) should I need to apply for it?

Thanks