TECHNICAL REGULATION (WTO TBT Agreement, Annex 1, para 1)
"Document which lays down product* characteristics or their related processes and production methods, including the applicable administrative provisions, with which compliance is mandatory. It may also include or deal exclusively with terminology, symbols, packaging, marking or labelling requirements as they apply to a product, process or production method.“
* This definition is restricted to “products” (and production processes) because the TBT Agreement’s scope is restricted to products (i.e. it does not deal with services).
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Follow the WTO/TBT clear-cut distinction between standards and regulations.
Standards and technical regulations both set technical requirements to be met in the development and supply of commodities, products and services but:
- Standards are voluntary
- Technical regulations are mandatory