On December 13, 2024, the new EU General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) came into effect—a significant update to safety standards and labeling requirements for products sold within the EU.
This article highlights the most important changes and provides practical tips on how your business can prepare.
Overview of the GPSR
The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) replaces the previous German Product Safety Act (ProdSG) and sets new standards for product safety throughout the European Union. The primary aim of the regulation is to increase consumer safety and further strengthen confidence in the EU internal market. The GPSR introduces stricter monitoring mechanisms and clearly defines the responsibilities of all market participants. For online marketplaces like Amazon, this means: as a seller, you are responsible for listing only products that meet the new stringent safety requirements.
The GPSR has been in force since December 2024—Amazon sellers who do not comply risk product suspensions, account sanctions, and civil liability. Acting now pays off.
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Affected Parties and Products
The GPSR affects a wide range of economic operators—from manufacturers and importers to authorized representatives and retailers. The regulation applies to almost all consumer goods marketed in the EU, including electronics, toys, and clothing. However, specific product groups such as food and pharmaceuticals are excluded, as they are regulated by other, more specific laws.
Specific Changes and Requirements
Under the GPSR, all products sold to consumers in the EU must contain clear and understandable safety information. Manufacturers are required to conduct comprehensive risk analyses. The regulation emphasizes that the responsibility for product safety does not end with the sale—a continuous monitoring process and, if necessary, a product update are required. As an Amazon seller, you must display this information visibly on your product pages and ensure that the products pass these ongoing safety checks.
Obligations for Online Retailers
Online retailers, especially on platforms like Amazon, must provide comprehensive risk and safety information on their product pages in the language of the respective sales country. In addition, it is required to designate an EU contact person responsible for GPSR compliance. These regulations ensure that all products on Amazon and similar platforms meet the high safety standards of the EU and that consumers are properly informed.
Impact on Product Labeling and Safety
The new regulation requires that product labeling now also includes product identification details, warning notices, and safety information. This information must be easy to understand and clearly visible. For Amazon sellers, this may mean revising current labeling and packaging to comply with the new requirements. The clearly defined labeling obligations help consumers make informed purchasing decisions.
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Technical and Logistical Challenges of GPSR Implementation
The implementation of the GPSR poses technical and logistical challenges, especially for smaller retailers and manufacturers. Many products may need to be newly tested and certified to meet the tightened safety requirements. This could require a revision of design and manufacturing processes. Especially for Amazon sellers, who often source a variety of products from different suppliers, this means: closely examine supply chains and ensure all suppliers meet the new requirements. Moreover, product traceability requires you to keep precise records of every step in the product lifecycle—from manufacturing to the end consumer.
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Legal Consequences and Risks of Non-Compliance
In addition to regulatory penalties and possible sanctions from platforms like Amazon, the GPSR also brings legal risks. Non-compliance can result in civil lawsuits, particularly if an unsafe product causes injury or damage. Companies must therefore not only meet GPSR requirements but also review and, if necessary, adjust their liability insurance. For Amazon sellers, this also means: update product liability insurance to cover the risks associated with the stricter regulations.
Support and Resources for Compliance with the GPSR
To support companies, especially online retailers, in complying with the GPSR, both the European Union and national authorities offer various resources. These include guidelines, webinars, training sessions, and technical documentation. Amazon itself also offers special programs and tools for sellers to facilitate GPSR compliance – including platforms for data management and automated systems for monitoring product conformity.
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Conclusion
The introduction of the GPSR marks an important step towards a safer consumer environment in the EU. Those who implement the new regulations early and continuously adapt to evolving safety standards not only avoid regulatory penalties but also strengthen their brand image and gain consumer trust.
Specifically for Amazon sellers, non-compliance with the GPSR not only poses the risk of regulatory penalties, but also direct sanctions from Amazon itself. In case of violations, Amazon may remove products from the platform, temporarily or permanently suspend seller accounts, and reduce the visibility of product listings. These measures can lead to significant loss of revenue and greatly impact a seller’s ability to operate in the European market.
Therefore, it is crucial for Amazon sellers to take the requirements of the GPSR seriously and implement them comprehensively – in order to comply both with EU regulations and Amazon’s own guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When does the GPSR take effect?
The regulation will apply in all EU member states from December 13, 2024.
What are the main changes introduced by the GPSR?
The GPSR introduces stricter safety assessments, extended labeling requirements, and new obligations for online retailers. These include, among others, specific requirements for product transparency and consumer information.
How can companies prepare?
Review and adapt internal processes, train employees, and implement suitable monitoring and traceability systems. For online retailers, it is especially important to check product listings for compliance with the new regulations.
What does the GPSR mean for Amazon sellers?
As an Amazon seller, you must ensure that your products comply with the strict safety standards of the GPSR. This includes proper labeling, providing complete product information, and appointing an EU contact person. Non-compliance may result in sanctions such as removal of listings or suspension of seller accounts.
What specific requirements does the GPSR impose on product labeling?
Products must be clearly and prominently labeled with information such as type, batch or serial number, safety warnings, and contact details of the responsible person. As an Amazon seller, you must include all required information in your product descriptions on the platform to ensure compliance and build consumer trust.
