As cross-border e-commerce grows, compliance with international regulations has become crucial for businesses. One such critical regulation is the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) introduced by the European Union. This blog explains what is GPSR, its participants, AliExpress’s actions, and the steps dropshippers need to take for compliance.
What Is GPSR?
The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) is a comprehensive EU regulation designed to ensure the safety of consumer products sold in the European Union. It updates the previous General Product Safety Directive to address modern challenges like e-commerce and complex global supply chains.
Key Details:
- Policy Effective Date: GPSR takes full effect on December 13, 2024.
- Scope of GPSR: GPSR applies to a broad range of consumer products sold in the EU and Northern Ireland (NI), including:
- Electronics
- Clothing and textiles
- Furniture
- Household goods
- Toys and childcare items
- DIY tools and equipment
Products covered under specific sectoral legislation, such as medical devices or automotive goods, are excluded from GPSR.
Who Is Affected by GPSR?
GPSR establishes clear responsibilities for various participants in the supply chain:
1. Manufacturers
- Ensure products meet all safety standards.
- Provide detailed label information, including CE certification and manufacturer contact information.
2. Importers and Distributors
- Verify product compliance and maintain documentation.
- Ensure non-compliant products are not sold.
3. Online Marketplaces
- Platforms like AliExpress, Amazon, and eBay must ensure that third-party sellers comply with GPSR.
- Remove non-compliant products promptly.
4. Dropshippers
Although not directly responsible for manufacturing, dropshippers must verify supplier compliance and ensure product listings meet GPSR standards.
What Action Is AliExpress Taking?
AliExpress has implemented robust measures to help sellers comply with GPSR:
1. Mandatory Compliance Documentation: Sellers must upload CE certifications, manufacturer details, and safety documentation for EU-listed products.
2. Increased Oversight: Since the second half of 2024, AliExpress has intensified product and seller audits to ensure compliance.
3. Educational Resources: The platform provides guidance articles and support tools to help sellers meet GPSR requirements.
What Should Dropshippers Do?
Dropshippers play a crucial role in ensuring the products they promote meet GPSR standards. Here are actionable steps:
1. Work with Verified Suppliers
Collaborate with suppliers on AliExpress or other platforms who provide valid compliance documentation, including CE certifications.
2. Maintain Comprehensive Records
Keep a database of compliance documents for all listed products to facilitate audits or inquiries.
3. Ensure Transparent Listings
Include accurate product details, such as manufacturer information and safety certifications, on product pages.
4. Stay Updated on GPSR Developments
Regularly check EU regulatory updates and resources from platforms like AliExpress to remain compliant.
5. Leverage Platform Support
Use AliExpress’s compliance tools and guidelines to streamline adherence to GPSR requirements.
Why Compliance Matters
Non-compliance with GPSR can result in:
- Product delisting or bans from platforms like AliExpress.
- Fines or legal penalties from EU authorities.
- Reputational damage and loss of consumer trust.
Conversely, compliance enhances seller credibility, opens access to the lucrative EU market, and builds long-term customer trust.
Conclusion
The GPSR represents a significant advancement in product safety and consumer protection in the EU and Northern Ireland. Dropshippers and sellers must embrace compliance not only as a legal obligation but as an opportunity to enhance trust and competitiveness. By understanding the regulation’s scope, leveraging platform resources, and ensuring product transparency, businesses can thrive in the growing e-commerce ecosystem.
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This articles is written by : Nermeen Nabil Khear Abdelmalak
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