The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR), which came into force on 13 December 2024, brings new responsibilities for businesses selling consumer goods in the EU and Northern Ireland. This includes sellers operating on online marketplaces, which have become a major hub for e-commerce. The GPSR aims to ensure that products sold on these platforms meet stringent safety standards, providing greater protection for consumers. For marketplace sellers, understanding and complying with these requirements is crucial to maintaining their trading privileges.
Marketplace Responsibilities under GPSR
The GPSR places specific obligations on online marketplaces to help ensure that only safe products are listed for sale. Platforms are required to verify that sellers provide clear and accurate product information, including manufacturer details, safety warnings, and compliance markings. They must also cooperate with market surveillance authorities by removing unsafe products swiftly and sharing information about non-compliant sellers. For individual sellers, this means that marketplaces may impose stricter vetting procedures and may demand detailed documentation for each product listed.
Challenges for Sellers on Marketplaces
Sellers on platforms such as Amazon, eBay or Etsy face unique challenges in meeting GPSR requirements. Many small businesses rely on third-party suppliers, which can make it difficult to verify product compliance. Additionally, sellers must ensure that product listings include all required information, from safety instructions to traceable identifiers. Failure to comply can result in products being removed, accounts being suspended, or even legal action by regulators or the marketplaces themselves.
Opportunities for Compliance-Focused Sellers
For sellers willing to invest in compliance, GPSR presents an opportunity to stand out in the crowded marketplace environment. Products that meet the regulation’s requirements signal reliability and quality, helping to build trust with consumers. Moreover, many online marketplaces actively promote compliant sellers, offering them better visibility and access to premium selling programmes. By prioritising safety and transparency, businesses can gain a competitive edge while avoiding the risks associated with non-compliance.
Preparing for Success on Marketplaces
To succeed under GPSR, marketplace sellers must take proactive steps to ensure compliance. This includes working closely with suppliers to verify product safety, updating listings with accurate and detailed information, and maintaining clear records of compliance documentation. Sellers should also stay informed about platform-specific policies and respond promptly to any requests for additional information or verification. By aligning their practices with GPSR requirements, businesses can not only safeguard their operations but also build a reputation for trustworthiness in the evolving e-commerce landscape.
