Your Essential Guide to NOM-020-SCFI-1997: Labeling of Natural Tanned Leathers and Synthetic or Artificial Materials Mimicking Leather, Footwear, Leather Goods, and Their Products
In Mexico, the Norma Oficial Mexicana (Mexican Official Standard) NOM-020-SCFI-1997 lays down specific guidelines for the labeling of leathers, tanned skins, synthetic or artificial materials, as well as products made from these materials. In this guide, we’ll delve into the fundamental aspects of this regulation and its implications for the industry. Understanding and adhering to its provisions not only fulfills a legal requirement but also serves as a savvy strategy to ensure the quality and safety of your products.
Understanding NOM-020-SCFI-1997
Purpose of the Standard: The standard aims to establish the commercial information that leather products, tanned skins, synthetic or artificial materials resembling leather, footwear, leather goods, and products made from these materials must contain for their marketing in Mexico, thus providing transparent information to consumers.
Scope of Application: The standard applies to leathers, tanned skins, synthetic or artificial materials resembling leather, as well as footwear, leather goods, and products made from these materials, intended for marketing in Mexican territory.
Key Definitions: Some important definitions include:
- Finish: Process to alter the original appearance of a tanned skin.
- Synthetic or Artificial Materials: Plastics, synthetics, or textiles resembling leather or hide.
- Hide or Leather: Fibrous protein material with collagen, chemically treated for stability and flexibility.
Labeling Requirements for Finished Products
Labels must include the manufacturer’s name, the legend “Made in Mexico” or country of origin, and the generic or specific definition of the materials. For footwear, details such as the upper, lining, and sole are also specified.
Labeling for Tanned Hides and Leathers
These must be marked on the packaging with information about the animal species, finish terms such as suede or nubuck (if applied), and the manufacturer’s name.
Labeling for Synthetic or Artificial Materials
These must be marked legibly and visibly, indicating in Spanish data such as the manufacturer’s name and the specific legend for these materials.
Information to Include in Invoices or Wholesale Notes
It must include the specific or generic name of the main material of the finished products, such as the upper in the case of footwear.
Benefits of Compliance with NOM
In addition to complying with the law, demonstrating compliance with NOM-020-SCFI-1997 can strengthen consumer trust and unlock new market opportunities, as well as avoid fines and penalties from the corresponding regulatory entities. A certified product is synonymous with reliability.
Ensuring Compliance
This article provides an overview of the key aspects of the regulation to understand it and take the first step, but if there’s a specific point you’d like to explore further, we always recommend seeking advice from experts or directly consulting the Official Gazette of the Federation. Subsequently, depending on your product’s situation, you’ll need to obtain a NOM Certification.
We provide advisory and certification services designed to facilitate compliance with the standards established by NOM-020-SCFI-1997. Ensure conformity and the smooth entry of your products into the Mexican market in the case of importation intended for sale in Mexican territory.
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