Trade compliance push: Commerce Ministry maps global non-tariff rules; exporters asked to share data

The commerce ministry has begun a detailed mapping of mandatory and voluntary non-tariff measures across major global markets as part of a new effort to strengthen export quality and technical compliance.In a note, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) said it is compiling a database of regulatory requirements — including certifications, testing protocols, inspections, audits and labelling norms — to support the Export Promotion Mission approved recently.Exporters asked to submit inputs within a weekThe DGFT has asked exporters, export promotion councils, commodity boards and industry bodies to submit relevant information on non-tariff measures (NTMs) within seven days.“It is clarified that non-submission may result in the relevant certifications or NTMs not being prioritised… which may consequently affect future support measures,” the DGFT said.Why NTMs matterNTMs include technical rules (standards, testing, certification, pre-shipment inspection) and non-technical rules (quotas, licensing, subsidies, procurement restrictions) imposed by importing countries.While they are often built around safety, health or environmental protection, NTMs can turn into non-tariff barriers (NTBs) when they become arbitrary or go beyond scientific justification.Compliance with these rules raises costs for exporters — from mandatory certification or lab tests to redesigning products for destination markets.Shipments may also face delays due to complex checks, paperwork and port-level verifications, the DGFT noted.