As the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) takes full effect, UK businesses selling to Northern Ireland (NI) must navigate new compliance challenges. Since Northern Ireland remains part of the EU single market for goods, UK-based sellers must meet GPSR regulations, similar to businesses exporting to the EU.
For UK businesses shipping products to NI, here’s what you need to know about GPSR compliance, EU representation requirements, and the risks of non-compliance.
1. Why GPSR Applies to Northern Ireland
Under the Northern Ireland Protocol, NI continues to follow EU rules for product safety and market access. This means:
✅ GPSR regulations apply to all consumer goods sold in NI. ✅ Products must meet EU safety requirements, including documentation and traceability. ✅ UK businesses cannot self-certify compliance for NI—they must appoint an EU-based representative.
2. UK Sellers Must Appoint an EU Authorised Representative
Since UK businesses are now considered non-EU entities, they must designate an EU Authorised Representative (AR) to continue selling goods in Northern Ireland.
An EU Authorised Representative acts as your compliance point of contact and ensures:
- Your products meet GPSR and EU safety regulations.
- Required documentation, such as technical files and risk assessments, is maintained.
- Regulatory authorities have a responsible EU-based contact for compliance inquiries.
Without an EU Authorised Representative, UK businesses cannot legally sell products in Northern Ireland or the EU.
3. What Happens If You Don’t Appoint an AR?
Failing to comply with GPSR regulations and not appointing an EU Authorised Representative can lead to serious consequences:
🚫 Product bans – Goods may be refused entry at NI ports or removed from stores and online marketplaces. 🚫 Loss of market access – Retailers and distributors may reject non-compliant products. 🚫 Legal penalties – Non-compliance with GPSR can result in fines and enforcement actions. 🚫 E-commerce restrictions – Platforms like Amazon and eBay require proof of compliance to sell in NI.
4. Ensure Compliance with an EC Declaration of Conformity
For products requiring CE marking, UK businesses must provide an EC Declaration of Conformity to prove they meet EU safety standards. This document includes:
- Product details and identification.
- Manufacturer or importer information.
- Applicable EU regulations and standards.
- A declaration of conformity statement signed by an authorized person.
Without a valid EC Declaration of Conformity, products can be rejected or removed from sale in NI.
5. How Euverify Simplifies Compliance for UK Businesses
Navigating GPSR compliance can be overwhelming, but Euverify provides a fast and hassle-free solution for businesses shipping to NI.
✅ EU Authorised Representative services to ensure legal market access. ✅ Easy EC Declaration of Conformity generation for product certification. ✅ Ongoing support to help businesses stay compliant with evolving EU regulations.
🚀 Stay compliant and expand your business in Northern Ireland with Euverify today!