What is the GPSR Regulation?

Key Aspects of the GPSR Regulation:

1. General Product Safety Principles

• Products must be safe — both physical items and those sold online.
• Manufacturers and distributors are required to eliminate product risks.

2. New Information Obligations

• Instructions, warnings, and product identification (e.g., serial numbers) are mandatory.
• E-commerce platforms must ensure product compliance with safety rules.
• Products must be marked with the contact details of a responsible entity (manufacturer or importer) within the EU.

3. Product Traceability in the Supply Chain

• Tracking mechanisms allow faster removal of unsafe products from the market.
• New obligations also apply to online sales from outside the EU.

4. Increased Accountability

• Online sales platforms must actively monitor the safety of listed products.
• Penalties and obligations (e.g., product recalls or consumer warnings) may apply if unsafe products reach the market.

5. Adaptation to New Realities

• The new regulations account for IoT, e-commerce, and non-standard business models.
• Each imported product must have a designated person responsible for compliance within the EU market.

Why is the GPSR Important?

The GPSR aims to protect consumers by ensuring that all products available on the EU market are safe and meet strict standards. It also helps market surveillance authorities (such as the UOKiK in Poland) enforce regulations more effectively and provides businesses with clear guidelines. As a result, it strengthens confidence in the EU single market and protects against unfair competition from non-compliant products.

When Does It Take Effect?

The GPSR (Regulation No. 2023/988) was published in May 2023 and its provisions came into effect on December 13, 2024, with transitional periods for businesses to adapt to the new requirements.