GPSR 2024: Key Requirements and How to Prepare Your E-Commerce Business
What is GPSR and Why is it Important?
The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) is a critical set of safety standards established by the European Union (EU) to ensure the safety of products sold across the EU, including Northern Ireland. GPSR replaces the previous General Product Safety Directive but introduces more rigorous safety protocols and stricter enforcement measures. Under the GPSR, businesses must identify potential risks associated with their products, implement risk reduction strategies, provide clear safety instructions, and maintain documentation to prove compliance.
For Amazon sellers, GPSR is especially significant because it demands a higher level of product safety and transparency. Sellers must now verify that every product listed on their platform meets GPSR’s stringent requirements. Non compliance could lead to severe consequences such as fines, product recalls, or removal from Amazon's marketplace.
When Does GPSR Come into Force?
The new regulation will replace the General Product Safety Directive (GPSD) 2001/95/EC after a transitional period that will end on December 13, 2024.
Exemption from GPSR
Responsibility Under GPSR
The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) outlines the various roles and responsibilities of individuals and entities involved in the manufacturing and distribution of products within the EU market. These roles are essential to ensuring compliance with safety standards, and each carries specific obligations.
Manufacturer
A "manufacturer" is defined as a person or entity that:
- Manufactures a product
- Has a product designed or manufactured under their own name or trademark
- Markets the product under their name or trademark
Importer
An "importer" refers to a person or entity established in the EU who places a product on the EU market.
Distributor
A "distributor" is a person or entity in the supply chain, other than the manufacturer or importer, that makes a product available on the market.
An authorised representative is an individual or entity established in the EU, appointed by a manufacturer to act on their behalf to fulfill specific tasks related to the requirements of the GPSR.
For businesses selling to consumers in the EU without an established entity in the region, it is necessary to appoint an authorised representative to meet these legal obligations.
Key GPSR Requirements
1) Responsible Person
One major change introduced by GPSR is the need to appoint a Responsible Person (Authorised Representative) within the EU. This person or entity will ensure that the product complies with GPSR and their contact details must appear on the product.
2) Manufacturer Information
Products must clearly display the manufacturer’s information, including their name and contact details. If an importer is involved, their information must also be visible, both on the product itself and in the product's online listing.
3) Labeling and Traceability
Proper labeling and traceability are key components of GPSR compliance. Each product must have a unique identifier and carry any necessary safety warnings or instructions, ensuring that it can be traced back to its origin in case of issues.
Preparing for GPSR: What's Next?
1. Begin your compliance efforts well before GPSR enforcement begins to avoid last minute issues.
2. Keep an eye on updates from both Amazon and EU regulators.
3. Consult with VATAi to ensure your business is fully GPSR compliant.
4. Work with suppliers to ensure they meet GPSR standards.
5. Put procedures in place to maintain ongoing compliance.
What Services We Offer
• EU Authorised Representative Agreement
Comprehensive agreement services to ensure compliance with EU regulations.
• EU Authorised Representative Information Label
Proper labeling to meet regulatory requirements, including all necessary contact information of the authorised representative.
• DOC Compliance Document Template
Ready-to-use templates for your Declaration of Conformity (DOC) to streamline compliance documentation.
• Fast Delivery
Delivery of services and documents in as little as 3 days.
• Multilingual Support
Professional services and support in multi languages, ensuring clear and effective communication.
• Free Receipt and Response to Mail in the EU
Free service for receiving and responding to mail within the EU on your behalf.
• Services Available Across Multiple EU Countries
Access to services in various EU countries, enabling rapid resolution of client issues.
• Technical Document and Certification Data Storage
Secure storage of technical documents and certification data, along with efficient complaint handling to meet regulatory demands.
• 1-on-1 Consultation for High-Risk Products
We offer personalised 1-on-1 consultations, order handling, and risk evaluations for high-risk products.ensuring compliance with the strict GPSR requirements.
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