How to identify the Non-Tariff Regulations and Restrictions applicable to a merchandise?
Once the tariff classification of a merchandise is determined, the next step is to identify the Non-Tariff Regulations and Restrictions (RRNA) that could apply to its import or export.
To this end, the Map of Non-Tariff Regulations and Restrictions and Harmonized System, available at the National Foreign Trade Information Service (SNICE), is an official tool that allows identifying the regulatory agreements related to a tariff classification and guiding the consultation of the applicable regulations. In this article, we explain how to use this tool, how to interpret the information it provides, and what aspects must be reviewed within the corresponding agreements to correctly determine the regulatory requirements of a merchandise.
After determining the tariff classification of a merchandise, a new question often arises:
What regulatory requirements must I comply with in order to import it?
The answer begins with identifying the applicable Non-Tariff Regulations and Restrictions (RRNA). As we know, tariff classification allows us to identify a merchandise's regulatory framework, while RRNA establish the requirements that must be met for its import or export. The next step is to identify which regulatory agreements are related to the tariff classification and analyze their content to determine the merchandise's specific obligations.
Once the tariff classification is identified, different sources can be used to consult the applicable Non-Tariff Regulations and Restrictions (RRNA). One tool that facilitates this process is the Map of RRNA and Tariffs, available for download in the Foreign Trade Tools section of the National Foreign Trade Information Service (SNICE) portal. This tool is presented as a database, and through the file's filters, it is possible to locate the tariff classification of interest and identify the regulatory agreements related to it.
As a result of the query, the tool displays a matrix with the different regulatory agreements associated with the tariff classification. When "Yes" appears in any of them, it means the tariff classification maintains a relationship with that legal instrument, and it will be necessary to review its content to determine if the provisions are applicable to the merchandise.
Once the corresponding agreement is identified, it is necessary to consult its content to relocate the tariff classification and analyze the applicable provisions. Depending on the legal instrument, requirements such as prior permits, notices, certificates, authorizations, exceptions, or specific notes may be established, which must be evaluated according to the merchandise's characteristics. This analysis will determine if the merchandise is subject to any Non-Tariff Regulation or Restriction and, if so, identify the obligations that must be met for its import or export.
To illustrate this process, let's take the tariff classification 9021.39.02 as an example. When consulting this classification in the Map of RRNA and Tariffs, the tool shows its relationship with the Ministry of Health Agreement.
Figure 1. Query of tariff classification 9021.39.02 in the Map of RRNA and Tariffs.
However, this result only indicates that the tariff classification is related to that agreement. To determine the applicable regulatory obligations, it is necessary to access the corresponding legal instrument and locate the tariff classification again within the document.
It is at this stage that the regulatory analysis is performed. Based on the content of the agreement, it will be possible to determine if the merchandise is subject to compliance with any Non-Tariff Regulation or Restriction, identify the competent authority, and know the specific requirements that must be met for its import or export.
In this sense, the Map of RRNA and Tariffs is a tool that facilitates the location of regulatory agreements related to a tariff classification; however, it does not by itself determine the requirements applicable to a merchandise. The correct identification of Non-Tariff Regulations and Restrictions requires the analysis of the corresponding legal instrument and the evaluation of the particular characteristics of each foreign trade operation.
Conclusion
Identifying Non-Tariff Regulations and Restrictions (RRNA) is a process that goes beyond knowing a merchandise's tariff classification. Tools like the Map of RRNA and Tariffs facilitate the location of applicable regulatory agreements; however, determining specific requirements will always depend on the analysis of the corresponding legal instrument.
To strengthen regulatory compliance from the planning stage, it is recommended to:
Verify that the tariff classification is correct before initiating any regulatory consultation.
Use the Map of RRNA and Tariffs as a starting point to identify the regulatory agreements related to the commodity.
Review the content of the applicable legal instrument, including the corresponding updates and modifications for each.
Perform this analysis before starting the foreign trade operation, in order to anticipate regulatory requirements and reduce the risk of non-compliance or delays in dispatch.
FAQ
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Yes. Depending on the regulatory agreement, the tool allows identifying provisions applicable to both imports and exports. However, it will always be necessary to review the content of the corresponding legal instrument to determine the scope of the obligations.
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The importer or exporter is responsible for ensuring that the operation complies with applicable regulations. To this end, it is advisable to perform the regulatory analysis from the planning stage and, when necessary, to have the support of foreign trade specialists.
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It is possible that the same tariff classification is linked to several regulatory agreements. In these cases, each legal instrument must be analyzed independently to determine if it establishes obligations applicable to the merchandise.
Written by:
Dulce Ángel
Logistics Analyst at Insumos para la Salud, S.A. de C.V., with experience in coordinating international operations and regulatory compliance for the chemical and healthcare supplies sector. She has training in process optimization methodologies under Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt level).
About IPS
If your company requires support identifying the Regulations and Non-Tariff Restrictions (RRNA) applicable to your products, Insumos para la Salud, S.A. de C.V. (IPS) can help. Our team provides specialized consulting services in tariff classification, import permit management, and regulatory compliance to support your foreign trade operations.
To learn more about our services, contact us at info@insumosparasalud.com