07-06-2023

The new EU Regulation 2023/988 on general product safety is entering into force on 12 June 2023 and shall apply from 13 December 2024. Directives 2001/95/EG and 87/357/EEG will be repealed and replaced by this Regulation.

This Regulation brings the existing rules on "general product safety" in line with the recent developments in digitalization and the significant increase in online shopping and imposes stricter obligations for both online and offline sales of products. Among other things, the Regulation namely introduces clear obligations for providers of online marketplaces.

Economic operators will thus have to comply with stricter obligations. Furthermore, the competence of market surveillance authorities as well as the Commission will be extended.

More transparency and information will also have to be provided to consumers regarding the risks that exist or occur in relation to a product (e.g., in case of a “recall” or safety warnings) and this in accordance with the vulnerability of the consumers.

For questions about this new Regulation, Astrea is happy to assist you.