Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Non-tariff barriers are trade restrictions that countries use to control the amount of trade across their borders without using traditional tariffs. These can include quotas, embargoes, sanctions, and quality standards.
Related terms
Quotas: A limit on the quantity of goods that can be imported or exported during a set period.
Embargoes: Official bans on trade with specific countries or in specific goods.
Sanctions: Restrictions imposed by one country on another for political or economic reasons to influence behavior