On this occasion we will answer one of the most frequently asked questions about Mexican regulations:
What are Mexican NOMs?
The Normas Oficiales Mexicanas (Official Mexican Standards), commonly known as NOM, are technical regulations and standards established by various government agencies in Mexico. Their main objective is to ensure quality, safety, efficiency, and sustainability in specific products, services, and processes. NOMs are crucial for protecting consumers, preserving the environment, promoting workplace safety, and fostering the competitiveness of businesses.
These regulations cover a wide range of sectors, including health, industrial safety, environment, food, energy, transportation, communications, among others. Each government department responsible for a specific branch of activity contributes to the creation and updating of NOMs related to its field of competence.
NOMs establish technical requirements and specifications that products and services must meet to be considered safe, efficient, and compliant with Mexican standards. Furthermore, they promote standardization and facilitate interoperability, simplifying commercial operations and ensuring compatibility between different products and services.
It is important to note that NOMs are mandatory and are published in the Diario Oficial de la Federación (Official Gazette of the Federation) or DOF. Their application contributes to improving the quality of life for citizens by ensuring that goods and services available in the market comply with the standards set by the Mexican government.
Responsible Departments:
NOMs in Mexico are managed by various government agencies, each focused on specific areas to ensure adequate control. Here are the most relevant departments:
- Secretaría de Economía (SE) [Ministry of Economy]: Manages NOMs related to standards, commercial regulations, product labeling, and quality of goods and services.
- Secretaría de Salud (SSA) [Ministry of Health]: Handles NOMs focused on health topics, such as sanitary requirements for the production and commercialization of food, medicines, and medical devices.
- Secretaría de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales (SEMARNAT) [Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources]: Administers NOMs aimed at environmental protection, addressing issues such as pollutant emissions, waste, and conservation of natural resources.
- Secretaría de Energía (SENER) [Ministry of Energy]: Regulates NOMs related to the energy industry, including energy efficiency and safety in resource exploitation.
- Secretaría del Trabajo y Previsión Social (STPS) [Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare]: Focused on ensuring safe and healthy working conditions, STPS manages NOMs addressing topics such as workplace safety, labor training, and worker protection.
- Secretaría de Comunicaciones y Transportes (SCT) [Ministry of Communications and Transportation]: Supervises NOMs related to communication and transportation infrastructure, ensuring safety and quality standards.
- Secretaría de Agricultura y Desarrollo Rural (SADER) [Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development]: Administers NOMs related to agri-food production, ensuring the quality and safety of sector products.
- Secretaría de Gobernación (SEGOB) [Ministry of the Interior]: Participates in managing NOMs related to security and civil protection.
- Secretaría de Seguridad y Protección Ciudadana (SSPC) [Ministry of Security and Citizen Protection]: Contributes to the regulation of NOMs related to public safety.
- Secretaría de Turismo (SECTUR) [Ministry of Tourism]: Administers NOMs ensuring quality and safety in the tourism sector.
- Secretaría de Desarrollo Social (SEDESOL) [Ministry of Social Development]: Participates in managing NOMs with a focus on social and community development.
Impact on Quality of Life and Business
The implementation of NOMs not only benefits consumers by ensuring safe and quality products but also strengthens the competitiveness of Mexican businesses by aligning them with international standards. Additionally, it protects workers by establishing safe and healthy working conditions.
Interested in Learning More about NOM?
You can find the current NOMs on the Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF) website, as well as on the websites of the responsible departments. Staying informed about these regulations is essential for businesses, professionals, and consumers who want to stay up-to-date and ensure compliance with established standards. Mexican NOMs are essential pillars for the sustainable development of the country, ensuring quality, safety, and efficiency across various sectors. Stay informed and contribute to a safer and more prosperous Mexico!
