Update: GPSR from 13th December, for EU & NI

Dear BA members, colleagues,

An update to remind members that the EU's General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) comes into force on the 13th December 2024 i.e. a week on Friday. It also has effect in Northern Ireland, under post-Brexit arrangements. 

In very broad summary, the most significant new requirement this brings for traders in Great Britain is that almost all goods (not just those with CE markings) sold into the EU or Northern Ireland must have a clearly identified "responsible economic operator" established within the EU or Northern Ireland. In many cases, this role can be satisfied by an EU or NI importer. But if supplying direct to consumers, other arrangements may need to be made. 

Most other aspects will already be complied with under existing legislation, although members may wish to review this in light of the guidance below: 

• Updated detailed notes on this legislation from my colleague Kristian Rigby, which we previously circulated in May, can be downloaded here.
   
• The Government has also - not before time - today published both summary and detailed guidance aimed especially at GB companies who may sell items to consumers in Northern Ireland. 
   
• Any member company selling via Amazon's UK "Fulfilled by Amazon (FBA)" programme should double check with Amazon whether they require EU GPSR requirements to be satisfied for all UK sales, because there is apparently no option to exclude sales to Northern Ireland for the FBA service - this is well explained in this article. I was unable to find a clear statement on this from Amazon themselves, although perhaps more would be available with a seller login. 
   
• The Government resource site for exporters "UK Export Academy" has a useful free webinar series including one on the 6th December (this Friday) at 10am on "Regulatory Frameworks including GPSR and CE Marking - What you need to know".

My colleague Kristian Rigby (copied) and myself are happy to assist BA members with any queries on this, as with all technical and compliance topics - our support is included in your BA membership.