New Amazon Regulation: The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) Takes Effect on December 13, 2024

The countdown has begun for all non-food product sellers in the European Union and Northern Ireland. Starting from December 13, 2024, the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) will come into effect, introducing new compliance requirements for those selling on Amazon and other digital marketplaces. This change aims to enhance the safety of products reaching consumers and ensure transparency in the European market.

What is the GPSR and Who Does It Affect?
The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) establishes a regulatory framework to ensure that all non-food consumer products are safe and properly traceable before entering the European market. This regulation affects all sellers operating in the European Union and Northern Ireland, including those using Amazon as a sales channel.

Key Date: Starting December 13, 2024, all non-food products sold in the EU must comply with the requirements established by the GPSR. Sellers must ensure that all aspects of labeling, traceability, and responsibility are in order before this date.

What Must Sellers Do to Comply with the GPSR?
Compliance with the GPSR is not only crucial to avoid penalties but also to maintain a presence in one of the most lucrative markets in the world. Below are the main actions that sellers must take before the deadline:

Compliance with Labeling and Traceability Requirements:

• All products must include the contact information of a responsible person within the EU.
• The label must specify the manufacturer’s name, along with their contact details and, if applicable, the importer’s information.
• Products must be labeled with the corresponding type, batch, or serial number.
• Additionally, safety warnings must be included in the language of the country where the product is sold, ensuring clear communication with consumers.

Display Information in Electronic Listings:

• The responsible person’s information, the manufacturer’s details, and their contact information must be clearly visible in the product description.
• Sellers should ensure to include detailed images of the product and any other necessary identification information.
• Warnings and safety information must also appear in the listings, in the local language of each market.

Establish a Responsible Person in the EU:

• Each seller must have a responsible person within the EU who ensures the products’ compliance with the GPSR. This requirement is essential for the sale and distribution of non-food products in the region.

Preparation for GPSR Compliance: When and How to Act?
Amazon recommends that sellers meet the initial requirements as soon as possible. In early 2024, the platform will provide detailed instructions for complying with visibility and information presentation requirements in electronic listings.

It is crucial to complete all preparations before the peak holiday sales season to avoid compliance issues during a time of high commercial activity. Non-compliant sellers risk having their offers deactivated, especially if they do not provide valid information or if their compliance contracts have expired.

Benefits of GPSR Compliance for Sellers
Adapting to the GPSR is not just a legal obligation; it also brings multiple benefits for sellers looking to stand out in the competitive European market:

• Increased Transparency and Consumer Trust: By offering products that comply with GPSR requirements, sellers demonstrate a commitment to safety and quality, which strengthens consumer trust.
• Continued Access to the European Market: Meeting GPSR standards is essential for maintaining a presence in the EU, a key market for any Amazon seller.
• Reduction of Legal Risks and Claims: Compliance with the regulation significantly reduces the risk of complaints, lawsuits, and product returns.
• Optimization of Information on Amazon: The new product safety and resources section on the Amazon detail page makes it easier for sellers to manage the required documentation, improving the visibility of marketing images and ensuring that products meet all necessary standards.

The implementation of the General Product Safety Regulation on December 13, 2024, marks a fundamental shift for e-commerce in Europe. For sellers, this new regulatory framework represents a challenge, but also an opportunity to professionalize their offerings and establish themselves in a demanding and promising market. Adapting in time with the correct documentation will be key to ensuring success in this new environment.

If you haven’t started preparing your products for compliance yet, don’t wait any longer. Ensure that your inventory is ready and meets all requirements, avoiding unpleasant surprises that could jeopardize your business in the EU. The countdown has already begun!

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