The EU General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) applies to all consumer products placed on the EU market. This includes new, second-hand, recycled and refurbished goods. GPSR has been in force since 13th December 2024 and introduces enhanced product safety requirements and supply chain traceability, with the goal to empower and protect consumers.

Core Obligations

  • Non-EU sellers must appoint an EU-based authorised representative
  • Products must undergo risk assessments covering physical, chemical (REACH), mechanical and cybersecurity risks
  • Provide a technical file to demonstrate traceability across supply chain
  • Products must be monitored post-sale and any changes or incidents must be reported within a time period
  • Product recall procedure must be in place
  • Online marketplaces are responsible for ensuring listed products and sellers are compliant

Roles

Manufacturers
  • Design safe and compliant products
  • Carry out risk assessments and provide technical file
  • Follow up monitoring and incident reporting
Importers
  • Verify compliance of imported products
  • Ensure authorised representative is appointed where applicable
Distributors
  • Verify compliance by checking CE marking and technical documentation
Online Marketplaces
  • Verify sellers and their listed products are compliant
  • Remove uncompliant product listings
  • Cooperate with authorities

GPSR Webinar, 6th March 2025

This session outlines specific requirements for product risk assessments and technical files under GPSR.

Further Guidance

GPSR Guidance (business.gov.uk)

UK Export Support: Ask the export support team a question

Service Providers:

Rob Hinchcliffe, UK Hardlines Manager
Website: www.sgs.co.uk
Email: Rob.Hinchcliffe@SGS.com

Global Trade Department

This information is provided as general guidance only. Organisations should refer to the relevant legislative text to determine their full legal obligations.