Packaging and Labeling Standards for Apparel in Mexico (NOM-004-SCFI)

Mexico has introduced new standards for apparel labeling and packaging. The current regulation, NOM 004 SE 2021, has been in effect since January 15, 2023, replacing the previous NOM 004 SCFI 2006. It establishes clear requirements for how every textile, garment, and accessory must be labeled before being sold in the Mexican market.

The label must include the trade name, fiber content with percentages and generic names including recycled fibers, manufacturer or importer details, and care instructions. All of this information must be in Spanish. The label also has to be clear, easy to read, and firmly attached to a visible spot such as the collar, waistband, or another obvious place. .
These rules help shoppers know exactly what they are buying and support fair and transparent trade in Mexico’s apparel market. For clothing brands and producers, following NOM 004 SE 2021 is not just about avoiding fines. It is about building trust and showing quality.
In this blog, we’ll explore what NOM 004 SE 2021 requires, why it matters, and how apparel brands can stay compliant in Mexico.

Understanding NOM 004 SE 2021

NOM 004 SE 2021 is Mexico’s official standard for labeling textiles, clothing, and accessories. It was created to give consumers accurate information about what they are buying and to make sure products sold in the country meet clear labeling rules.

This standard applies to all kinds of textile products, from T-shirts and jeans to curtains, socks, and even accessories like scarves or gloves. It covers both locally made and imported goods, so whether a brand produces in Mexico or ships from abroad, compliance is required.

The goal of NOM 004 SE 2021 is to protect consumers and promote transparency. Labels must clearly show what the product is made of, who made or imported it, and how to care for it. It helps buyers make informed choices and ensures fair competition among brands.

The regulation is enforced by Mexico’s Ministry of Economy and PROFECO, the federal consumer protection agency. Together, they make sure that every product on store shelves follows the same labeling standards, protecting both shoppers and honest businesses.

Labeling Requirements Under NOM 004 SE 2021

The NOM 004 SE 2021 standard explains exactly what information must appear on the labels of all clothing, textiles, and accessories sold in Mexico. Let us look at the key labeling requirements in detail.

1. Mandatory Information

Every product label must include the following information:

• Trade name or brand: The label must show the name under which the product is sold. This can be the manufacturer’s brand, the importer’s brand, or another trade name registered for the product.
• Fiber composition: Each label must list the types and percentages of fibers used in the product, such as cotton, polyester, wool, or nylon. The generic names of the fibers must be used, not trademarks or marketing terms. Recycled fibers must also be included in the composition list. For example: 60% cotton, 40% recycled polyester.
• Manufacturer or importer details: The label must clearly state the name, business address, or registered brand of the manufacturer, importer, or distributor. This ensures traceability and accountability if there are any issues with the product.
• Country of origin: The product must indicate where it was made, using phrases such as “Hecho en México” (Made in Mexico) or “Hecho en China” (Made in China). This information helps consumers understand where the textile was produced.
• Care instructions: Labels must include washing, drying, ironing, and bleaching instructions to guide consumers on how to take care of the product. The care instructions can use written text or internationally recognized care symbols. These instructions must be clear and easy to understand to prevent product damage or misuse.
• Size information: Garments must show the size in a way that consumers can easily recognize (for example, S, M, L, or numerical sizes). This is important for clothing sold both individually and in sets.

2. Language Requirements

All information on the label must be written in Spanish. Other languages may appear as additional translations, but the Spanish text must be clear and complete. This ensures that all consumers in Mexico can easily understand what the product label says.

3. Placement and Permanence

The label must be permanent, legible, and visible at the point of sale. It should be firmly attached to the product and able to withstand normal use. For example:

• In shirts, labels are usually placed on the collar or side seam.
• In pants or jeans, they can appear on the waistband.
• For household textiles like towels or sheets, the label is usually sewn along the edge.

The text should be large enough to read easily and printed in durable ink or stitching that won’t fade or wash off quickly.

4. Symbols and Care Pictograms

Care instructions can include symbols that show how to wash, dry, or iron the garment. These symbols must follow international standards, such as ISO 3758, and be clear enough for consumers to understand at a glance. Brands should make sure the symbols they use match the product’s actual material and manufacturing specifications.

5. Special Cases

Some products have slightly different labeling needs. For example:

• Small items like socks or gloves can have a single label on the packaging if attaching one to each piece isn’t practical.
• Sets or multi-piece garments must have labels on each main component so consumers know the material and care instructions for each part.

For brands, meeting NOM 004 SE 2021 standards means smoother customs clearance, fewer product rejections, and a stronger reputation in Mexico’s growing apparel market.

Packaging Standards and Additional Considerations

While NOM 004 SE 2021 mainly focuses on labeling, packaging also plays an important role in product presentation and compliance. Proper packaging protects the garment, provides key information, and supports sustainability goals.

1. Packaging Materials

Packaging should protect the product during transport, handling, and storage. It must be made from clean, safe, and suitable materials that do not damage the textile or alter its appearance. Whenever possible, brands are encouraged to use eco-friendly or recyclable materials, as Mexico is taking stronger steps toward sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Plastic bags, boxes, or wrapping must not contain hazardous chemicals or substances. For example, packaging with strong odors or colors that can stain fabrics should be avoided.

2. Product Identification on Packaging

If an item’s label is not visible through the packaging, the outer package must also carry key product details, including:

• The product name or type (e.g., “cotton T-shirt” or “polyester dress”)
• The brand or trade name
• The size
• The country of origin
• Basic care information (if not visible on the inside label)

It helps consumers identify the product even before opening it and ensures transparency at the point of sale.

3. Packaging for Imported Products

Imported apparel must meet all the same labeling and packaging standards as locally made goods. Customs authorities often check for compliance before allowing products to enter the market. Having labels and packaging that already meet NOM 004 SE 2021 saves time, avoids fines, and prevents shipment delays.

It’s best to ensure that all labeling information is correctly placed before shipping to Mexico rather than relabeling products after arrival.

4. Presentation and Branding

Although NOM 004 SE 2021 focuses on factual labeling, packaging is also a valuable tool for brand presentation. Clean, well-organized, and accurate packaging gives consumers confidence in the quality of the product. Brands should balance compliance with creativity, making sure all required information is easy to find while maintaining an appealing design.

Compliance Process and Enforcement in Mexico’s Apparel Industry

Complying with NOM 004 SE 2021 requires more than just adding a label. It involves careful testing, documentation, and continuous quality checks to make sure every detail meets the standard.

1. Steps to Certify Compliance

To meet the standard, companies should follow these key steps:

Testing: Verify the fibre composition of each product through a certified laboratory. This ensures that the percentages listed on the label are accurate. Testing also confirms that the care instructions match the fabric’s properties.

Documentation: Keep complete records for each product, including fiber test reports, supplier information, and production details. Documentation must show that the data printed on the label is true and traceable.

Labeling Verification: Review every label before products are shipped or placed in stores. Make sure all mandatory information, such as trade name, fiber content, manufacturer or importer details, and care instructions, is correctly displayed in Spanish and permanently attached.

By following these steps early in the design and production process, brands can avoid delays or rework later.

2. PROFECO Inspections and Penalties

The Federal Consumer Protection Agency (PROFECO) monitors compliance with NOM 004 SE 2021. Inspectors can visit stores, warehouses, or production facilities to check labels and packaging. If products fail to meet requirements, PROFECO can issue:

• Fines or sanctions for misleading or missing information.
• Product removal from stores until corrections are made.
• Import restrictions for non-compliant goods at customs.

Frequent violations can damage a brand’s reputation and delay product launches.

Practical Tips for Apparel Brands

Complying with NOM 004 SE 2021 is much easier when labeling is treated as part of the product plan, not an afterthought. Integrating compliance early helps brands save time, avoid costly revisions, and enter the Mexican market with confidence. To make this process simpler, here are some practical steps and insights every apparel brand should follow.

1. Plan Labeling Early

Start thinking about labels during the design stage, not after production.

• Start thinking about labels during the design stage, not after production.
• Add labeling requirements to your design and production checklists.
• Gather accurate fiber composition data before selecting final materials.
• Prepare Spanish labels during sampling to verify placement and clarity.
• Make sure packaging supports both visibility and durability.

2. Avoid Common Mistakes

Even small errors can cause shipment delays or rejections.

• Confirm fiber ratios through certified lab tests.
• Always include a complete Spanish text on labels.
• Use clear, recognized care symbols or simple wording.
• Attach labels that are permanent and easy to read.
• Check that the country of origin matches the customs documents.

3. Helpful Resources

Reliable partners make compliance smoother and more consistent.

• Secretaría de Economía – official guidance on NOM 004 SE 2021.
• PROFECO – updates and enforcement information.
• Accredited laboratories – fiber and composition testing.
• Customs brokers or consultants – pre-import label verification.

Treat labeling and packaging as part of your product’s design process. When done right, it protects your brand, builds consumer trust, and makes entering Mexico’s apparel market much smoother.

Ensuring Compliance and Building Trust with AMREP Mexico

Understanding and applying NOM 004 SE 2021 is key for apparel brands aiming to succeed in Mexico’s market. Proper labeling and packaging ensure compliance while reflecting professionalism and transparency. Navigating these regulations can be challenging, especially for international brands, which makes expert local support essential.

With AMREP Mexico’s Supplier Quality Engineering services, you can be confident that every garment meets NOM 004 SE 2021 and all other local requirements before it reaches the market.

Partner with AMREP Mexico today to streamline your labeling and packaging process, stay fully compliant, and earn the trust of your customers in the Mexican market.