Why Are the New Regulations Necessary?

The previous General Product Safety Directive was developed over two decades ago. Since then, the market has undergone significant changes. The rapid growth of e-commerce, the digitalization of products, and transformations in supply chains have created new challenges for ensuring consumer safety.

The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) addresses these changes and aims to:

- Ensure that all products introduced to the EU market are safe, regardless of whether they are sold offline or online.

- Standardize accountability rules for manufacturers and distributors.

- Enhance market surveillance and streamline the withdrawal of unsafe products.

Key Changes Introduced by GPSR

Broader Definition of Product Safety
The new regulations consider not only physical risks to consumers but also those related to cybersecurity and interactions with digital products.

Obligations for Online Sellers
E-commerce platforms will be required to take greater responsibility for the safety of products sold through their services, including identifying hazardous items and promptly responding to safety reports.

Introduction of Digital Product Passports
Every product entering the EU market must have a digital passport containing information on its regulatory compliance and a record of any incidents involving its use.

Stricter Reporting Obligations for Manufacturers and Importers
Companies introducing products to the EU market must report safety incidents within two days of detection.

Increased Penalties for Non-Compliance
The regulation imposes higher financial penalties for entities violating the rules, which can amount to as much as 4% of the company’s annual turnover.

How Will GPSR Affect Consumers and Businesses?

For Consumers:

The new regulations will ensure safer shopping experiences, especially online. Customers can expect better identification of unsafe products and faster recall actions if hazards are detected.

For Businesses:

Companies will need to adjust their production, logistics, and sales processes to meet the new requirements. Online retailers and producers of digital devices may face particular challenges due to stricter standards.

What Should Be Done Before December 13, 2024?

- Product Safety Audits: Manufacturers and importers should evaluate their products against the new safety standards.

- Implementation of Reporting Systems: Businesses must prepare mechanisms for rapid incident reporting.

- Employee Training: Understanding new obligations is crucial for compliance, production, and sales teams.

- Preparation of Digital Product Passports: This is especially important for technological and innovative products.

A Step Towards a Safer Market

The GPSR represents a milestone in harmonizing product safety regulations across Europe. While it poses a compliance challenge for many businesses, it offers consumers greater safety and transparency.

Starting December 13, 2024, the EU will enter a new era in which product safety is better aligned with the demands of the modern world. Adapting to these changes is not only a legal obligation but also an opportunity to build consumer trust and enhance competitiveness in the demanding EU market.