GPSR (General Product Safety Regulation)
New European regulation strengthening product safety obligations, particularly for online sales and marketplaces.
GPSR — General Product Safety Regulation
GPSR (Regulation (EU) 2023/988 on general product safety) replaces the old Directive 2001/95/EC. It has been applicable since December 13, 2024 and significantly strengthens the safety obligations for all consumer products placed on the EU market.
Main new features
- Marketplaces: online marketplaces have new specific obligations (designation of a point of contact, cooperation with the authorities, rapid withdrawal of dangerous products)
- Responsible person: any product sold in the EU must have a responsible person established in the EU (manufacturer, importer, or agent)
- Reinforced traceability: each product must bear the name and address of the manufacturer and importer
- Product recalls: new consumer information and remediation obligations (replacement, repair, reimbursement)
Impact for importers
Importers must check that the manufacturer has complied with its obligations (technical documentation, marking), keep the EU certificate of conformity for 10 years and notify the authorities in the event of a dangerous product.
Customs control
Customs checks GPSR compliance upon import. Non-compliant products may be rejected, destroyed or withdrawn from the market.
Link with CE marking
The GPSR covers products which are not subject to sectoral harmonization legislation (such as the “CE marking” directives). It provides a safety net for all consumer products.