What is the Product Safety Regulation about?

​

While some consumer products have long been governed by sector-specific regulations, the EU General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) has expanded product safety requirements to practically all consumer products not already covered by specific rules. Its main objective is to ensure that products placed on the market remain safe throughout their entire lifecycle.

​

The regulation applies not only to new products but also to used, repaired, and refurbished goods. It sets obligations for the entire supply chain – including manufacturers, importers, distributors, fulfilment service providers, and online marketplaces.

​

What are the obligations of different actors?

​

The GPSR obligations extend to all parties involved in the design, import, distribution, or sale of products.

​

• Manufacturer: responsible for safe design and production, risk analysis, technical documentation, and consumer communication. The manufacturer must also report accidents through the Safety Business Gateway system.
   

• Importer: ensures that products imported from outside the EU comply with the regulation and that the manufacturer has fulfilled its duties. The importer’s details must be included on the product, and the importer must also monitor storage and transport conditions.
   

• Distributor: verifies that the manufacturer and importer have met their obligations, monitors storage and logistics conditions, and reports any safety issues to the manufacturer or importer.
   

• Fulfilment service provider: complies with general obligations applicable to all economic operators, such as those relating to distance sales, returns, and corrective measures.
   

• Online marketplace operator: must provide required information through its digital interfaces, designate contact points for authorities and consumers, register in the Safety Gate portal, and ensure readiness to comply with enforcement orders.
   

Each participant in the supply chain faces a broad set of responsibilities under the Product Safety Regulation.

​

Why is compliance important?

​

Beyond administrative penalties, breaches of the regulation can, in serious cases, lead to criminal liability, including health-related offences. Compliance is not only a legal necessity but also a key element of corporate responsibility and reputation management.

​

For companies involved in the consumer product value chain, it is crucial to understand their role within the supply chain, know the specific obligations applicable to them, and integrate the required procedures seamlessly into everyday operations.

​