The UK Product Regulation and Metrology Act (PRAM) proposed in 2024 received Royal Assent on 21st July 2025, meaning it has now formally become an Act of Parliament.
The new Act has provided the UK Government with tougher powers to amend existing and introduce new product regulations, to enhance consumer protection from dangerous products and online marketplaces.
The first of these changes is likely to tackle online marketplaces and is expected soon, as confirmed by a Press Release from the Department for Business and Trade:
“…the Government intends to introduce requirements for online marketplaces at the earliest opportunity to update their responsibilities.
These will create a proportionate regulatory framework where online marketplaces are expected to:
- prevent unsafe products from being made available to consumers
- ensure that sellers operating on their platform comply with product safety obligations
- provide relevant information to consumers;
- and cooperate closely with regulators.”
Product manufacturers and online marketplaces should be alert for incoming announcements and regulations from the Government, and we encourage members to ensure that your voice is heard during any public consultation opportunities.
For further information, please see the Code of Conduct that the Government has published, clarifying how it intends to use its new powers under the Act.
