General Product Safety Regulation (EU) 2023/988
The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) came into force on December 13th 2024 and is designed to ensure that consumer products sold within the European Union are safe. It applies to all products, not just those that fall under sector-specific regulations (e.g., machinery, toys, electrical equipment). In recent updates to the GPSR, significant changes have been made to strengthen consumer safety.
The manufacturer remains responsible for the safety and compliance of the products supplied.
Here's a summary of the key changes:
1. Broader Scope of Coverage
The regulation now includes a wider range of products, covering not just physical items but also products sold online. This extension aims to ensure that safety standards are applied to e-commerce, which has grown significantly. Marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and others are now more directly responsible for ensuring the safety of the products sold through their platforms.
2. Enhanced Safety Requirements for Online Sellers
Online platforms are now required to act more proactively in monitoring and removing unsafe products. If a product is found to be unsafe, sellers are obligated to remove it from their platforms or risk facing penalties. These platforms must also take actions to prevent the sale of unsafe products.
3. Stronger Product Traceability
The updated regulation requires better traceability of products through the supply chain. This ensures that, in case of an issue or recall, identifying the responsible manufacturers, distributors, or importers becomes easier. All economic operators involved in the product's journey must retain records to facilitate this traceability.
4. Improved Risk Assessment and Rapid Information Exchange
The regulation has introduced more robust procedures for risk assessment and management. Authorities are now better equipped to assess risks and respond faster in cases where products are found to pose a serious threat. Member states are required to exchange information rapidly about dangerous products, ensuring a more coordinated and timely response.
5. New Obligations for Producers and Importers
Producers and importers are now held more accountable for ensuring their products meet the safety standards before entering the market. If a product is unsafe, they are required to immediately inform national authorities and provide details about the product. Non-compliance can lead to sanctions. An EU Authorised Representative may be required.
6. Stronger Enforcement Powers for Authorities
National authorities are given enhanced enforcement powers, including the ability to impose fines and take action to remove unsafe products from the market. This is crucial for dealing with non-compliant businesses and ensuring that unsafe products do not pose a widespread threat.
7. Emphasis on Product Recalls
The regulation now includes clearer guidelines and requirements around product recalls. If a product is deemed unsafe, the producer, distributor, or online platform is required to inform consumers and recall the product from the market.
8. Increased Role of Consumer Feedback
The regulation introduces mechanisms for consumers to report unsafe products easily, ensuring that any potential safety risks are identified earlier. This includes the use of online platforms to facilitate the reporting of dangerous products.
These changes reflect the EU's commitment to enhancing consumer protection in an increasingly digital and global marketplace. By holding all actors in the supply chain responsible, the regulation aims to reduce the risk of unsafe products entering the market and to respond quickly when problems arise.
This link is to download the EU Factsheet.