What are NOMs and how do they apply to my exports?

Import/export

Oct 8

In Mexican foreign trade, one of the most important requirements exporters must comply with are the Official Mexican Standards (NOMs). These are mandatory technical regulations that establish requirements for safety, labeling, quality, health, environmental protection, and consumer information. Their main purpose is to ensure that goods exported from Mexico meet standards that protect consumers, safeguard the environment, and build trust in international markets.

What Are NOMs?

NOMs are technical regulations issued by various Mexican government agencies, such as the Ministry of Economy or the Ministry of Health. They apply not only to imported products but also to exported goods, making sure that Mexican products remain competitive and compliant abroad.

How Do They Affect Exports?

Depending on the type of goods, NOMs may apply in different ways:

Safety NOMs

Apply to products such as electronics, automotive parts, toys, textiles, and machinery.
Their role is to prevent consumer risks, such as fire hazards, electrical shocks, or structural defects.

Labeling NOMs

Regulate how products must display information, including country of origin, instructions for use, content, warnings, and language requirements.
Commonly required for food and beverages, textiles, chemicals, and consumer goods.

Health and Sanitary NOMs

Cover products such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, cosmetics, food, and beverages.
Their goal is to ensure that exported goods comply with health and safety standards to protect consumers abroad.

Environmental NOMs

Apply to industries such as automotive, chemical, and energy.
Focus on limiting pollution and regulating the environmental impact of certain processes or materials.

Why Are NOMs Important in Exports?

Compliance with NOMs is essential for Mexican goods to enter foreign markets smoothly. Non-compliance may result in:

Cargo is being detained or returned at customs.
Penalties and fines.
Loss of competitiveness compared to compliant suppliers.
Damage to the exporter’s reputation.

This is why having the right tariff classification, regulatory verification, and technical advisory is key to exporting successfully.

Infographic on official Mexican standards (NOM's) | Infographic made in Canva, by Integración Aduanal — Infographic on Official Mexican Standards (NOM's) | Infographic made in Canva, by Integración Aduanal

How Can Integración Aduanal Help You?

At Integración Aduanal, we understand the complexity of complying with NOMs in international trade. Our team of experts in customs brokerage, regulatory compliance, and logistics management guides you through every step, ensuring your shipments meet safety, labeling, health, and environmental requirements.

With our Mexican and U.S. customs brokerage services, we help you avoid delays, extra costs, and compliance risks—so your company can export with confidence and meet international commitments on time.

👉 Learn more about how we can support your next shipment at: www.integracionaduanal.net