Non-tariff regulation of foreign trade
Besides duties and taxes, the state regulates foreign trade with non-tariff measures: licenses, quotas, certification, sanitary and permit procedures. It is these that most often hold up cargo at the border if documents are not prepared in advance. Let us break down what measures exist and whom they concern.
Tariff and non-tariff regulation
Tariff regulation is duties and taxes that affect the price of goods. Non-tariff is administrative restrictions and requirements that determine whether goods can be imported at all and under what conditions. The basis is the Law “On Foreign Economic Activity” and the Customs Code.
Types of non-tariff measures
| Group of measures | What it includes |
|---|---|
| Quantitative | Licensing, quotas |
| Technical | Certification, technical regulations, labelling |
| SPS measures | Sanitary, phytosanitary, veterinary |
| Permit | Export control, registration, special permits |
| Bans | Embargoes, sanctions, restrictions |
Quantitative restrictions: licensing and quotas
For certain goods the state introduces licenses and quotas — quantitative restrictions on import or export. The lists of such goods are approved annually by the Cabinet of Ministers. The paperwork is handled by foreign trade licensing.
Technical measures: certification and technical regulations
Much production must comply with technical regulations: undergo conformity assessment, obtain a certificate or declaration, apply the national mark. These questions are covered by product certification.
Sanitary, phytosanitary and veterinary measures
Food products, plants and goods of animal origin undergo sanitary (SPS) control at the border. This includes phytosanitary control, veterinary control and sanitary-epidemiological conclusions. Without them customs will not clear the cargo.
Export control
Military and dual-use goods fall under export control: a permit or conclusion from the State Export Control Service is needed. This concerns not only export but also import and transit of such goods.
Registration and notification of products
Certain goods cannot be imported without registration or notification: medicines and dietary supplements, cosmetics, disinfectants, medical devices. Each category has its own regime and its own authority. A category error is a common cause of delays.
Special permits and bans
Cultural valuables, radio-electronic devices and encryption equipment require separate permits. Separately there are direct bans and sanctions on certain goods or countries. Such cases are checked before signing the deal.
How to understand which measures apply to the goods
The starting point is the UKT ZED code and the description of the goods. By them it is determined which non-tariff measures apply: a license, certificate, SPS or permit. One product may fall under several measures at once.
Frequently asked questions
Help with non-tariff measures
Trans-Hope determines which non-tariff measures apply to your goods, arranges licenses, certificates and permits and handles clearance. The consistency of the set is handled by the customs broker. Send the description of the goods and the code — we will compile the list of required documents.
