The EU’s General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) is set to come into effect on 13 December 2024, replacing the current General Product Safety Directive (GPSD). This new regulation introduces significant updates aimed at enhancing the safety of consumer goods sold both online and offline across the European Union.
If your business exports products to the EU, understanding and complying with these changes is essential.
Considerations for Made in Britain Companies
Drawing on official guidance, as well as Made in Britain trade relationships and work, including links with the UK’s Trade Commissioner for Europe and an online exporting to Europe session earlier in the year, here are some key considerations:
1. Review and Update Product Safety Systems
Conduct a comprehensive review of your current product safety practices, ensuring they align with EU GPSR requirements. Update your processes for testing, certification, and risk assessments, especially for any Internet of Things or connected products.
2. Appoint an EU Representative
If you do not already have representation in the EU, it is essential to appoint an authorised representative to manage compliance.
3. Strengthen Traceability Systems
Ensure your products have clear and comprehensive labelling, including the name and contact details of your business or EU representative. Where you don’t already have them, implement systems to track your product from manufacturing to the final customer.
4. Engage with EU Marketplaces
Check with e-commerce platforms in the EU to ensure compliance with their safety requirements under GPSR. Proactively demonstrate your adherence to GPSR to build trust with platforms and customers.
5. Stay Updated on Market Surveillance
Familiarise yourself with the new processes for product recalls and responses to regulator queries. Ensure your team is ready to act promptly if a compliance issue arises.
Resources and Support
Navigating regulatory changes can be complex, especially for SMEs. Consider engaging specialists who can help with GPSR compliance, such as trade consultants, legal advisors, or EU-based representation services.
To make contact with Made in Britain about connecting with such advice, please email: trade@madeinbritain.org Please also look out at Made in Britain communications and upcoming international trade activity.
Made in Britain businesses are also encouraged to contact the UK Department for Business and Trade (DBT) for tailored export support: DBT Export Support.
More Details on GPSR Changes
The GPSR aims to ensure a higher level of safety for EU consumers and includes several important updates:
1. Alignment with Online Sales Trends:
GPSR accounts for the rapid rise of e-commerce, requiring that products sold online meet the same safety standards as those sold offline. Marketplaces and platforms are now expected to ensure compliance and may be held responsible for unsafe products sold through their channels.
2. Introduction of an EU Representative Requirement:
Non-EU manufacturers (including UK-based exporters) must appoint an authorised representative based in the EU to act as the contact point for safety compliance. This representative will be responsible for providing the EU authorities with the necessary product documentation and ensuring safety obligations are met.
3. Enhanced Traceability:
Businesses will need to ensure robust traceability systems, including clearly identifiable product information on packaging. This extends to supplying essential details of the manufacturer, importer, or EU representative to authorities and end consumers.
4. Market Surveillance:
The GPSR introduces more stringent measures for market surveillance, including faster product recalls and improved information-sharing mechanisms for dangerous products. Businesses may face higher scrutiny from regulators.
5. Focus on New Risks:
The regulation considers new and emerging risks, such as cybersecurity threats posed by connected devices (e.g., IoT products). Businesses must address these risks when designing and manufacturing products.
To make contact with Made in Britain about the EU’s GSPR, please email trade@madeinbritain.org
By Made in Britain 2 weeks ago | Exports