Non-tariff barriers

In one line: Non-tariff barriers restrict trade through rules rather than taxes, such as standards, certification, quotas, licensing and customs procedures.

Examples

Sanitary and phytosanitary rules on food, technical standards on products, mandatory certification such as India's Quality Control Orders, and environmental rules such as the EU's deforestation regulation.

Why they matter now

As tariffs fall under FTAs, these rules decide real market access. They can be legitimate, to protect health and safety, or protectionist.

For exporters

Meeting them needs testing labs, certification and traceability, which are costly for small firms.

Where to go next

• Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism: Europe's carbon tariff
• Free trade agreement: How FTAs differ from WTO rules