European Product Act: Associations are calling for stricter EU rules for products from third countries

The Brand Association, the German Trade Association (HDE) and the Federal Association of Consumer Organizations (vzbv) are calling for stricter EU rules for products from third countries. “Anyone who sells products in Europe must also be able to be held legally responsible in Europe,” said the associations. They called on the federal government to support this in the planned EU legislative package, the European Product Act.

Dealers and manufacturers not based in the EU should have to “appoint a registered authorized representative in Europe who will ensure the legal conformity of their products,” the statement continued. In the opinion of the associations, online platforms should be required to check whether such a person responsible is registered. If the platform has violated its obligation to check and there is no such person responsible, it should be able to be held responsible.

According to the associations, there were an estimated 5.9 billion low-value e-commerce shipments to the EU last year. When these shipments are checked, violations are repeatedly discovered - such as counterfeits or products that are dangerous to health. In such cases, providers outside the EU often lack “a legally tangible person responsible.”

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“Consumers must be able to rely on products being safe,” said vzbv board member Ramona Pop. There is a need for more testing obligations for platforms and a responsible actor in Europe who is liable in the event of damage. “Anyone who does not adhere to the rules must face harsh consequences that can also be enforced in practice,” said HDE Managing Director Stefan Genth.