Selling products on platforms like Amazon sounds simple – until the rules change.
With the new Product Liability Directive 2024/2853, businesses importing into the EU now face bigger responsibilities. If you are an importer, authorised representative, or distributor, this update affects you directly. But don't worry — we'll break it down in clear language.
What Is the EU Product Liability Directive 2024/2853?
The Product Liability Directive (PLD) 2024/2853 is a new European law that updates the old rules from 1985. It is designed to protect consumers when products are defective and cause damage.
In simple words: if a product you sell hurts someone or damages property, you can be held legally responsible, even if you didn’t make the product yourself. In the worst case, you can be held personally liable.
The new rules are much tougher because of modern challenges, like smart devices, online sales, and complex global supply chains.
Who Is Responsible Under the New Rules?
Before, only manufacturers were mainly liable.
Now, several actors can be held responsible:
- Manufacturer – the person or company that made the product.
- Importer – anyone who brings a product into the EU.
- Authorised Representative – if you act on behalf of a non-EU brand.
- Distributor – if you sell the product, even online, without major changes.
Important: If no EU-based manufacturer is clearly identified, you, the importer, may automatically become responsible!
Example: If you import Bluetooth speakers from China and sell them on Amazon Germany, you could be liable if the product catches fire, even though you didn’t make it.
How Does This Relate to the GPSR (General Product Safety Regulation)?
The new GPSR (General Product Safety Regulation) also went into effect around the same time.
Together with the Product Liability Directive, it makes sure products are safe before they are sold — and holds the right people accountable if something goes wrong.
In short:
- GPSR = make sure products are safe.
- Product Liability Directive = pay if a defective product causes damage.
Both regulations demand more checks, documentation, and traceability from importers and sellers.
What Should Small Importers Do Now?
Here’s what we recommend if you sell on Amazon, Bol.com, or other platforms:
- Check your suppliers: Make sure they comply with EU safety rules.
- Have clear agreements: Especially with non-EU suppliers.
- Appoint an Authorised Representative if you are a non-EU sellers.
- Keep detailed technical documentation.
- Test your products.
- Insure yourself: Product liability insurance is now more important than ever.
- Stay updated: Regulations keep changing.
If you do nothing, you risk getting sued, banned from marketplaces, or fined heavily. In the worst case, you could even go to jail.
Conclusion: Be Safe
The EU Product Liability Directive 2024/2853 brings huge changes, especially for small businesses selling imported goods.
Understanding your role as an importer, authorised representative, or distributor is really important.
It may sound overwhelming, but with the right advice and preparation, you can continue selling safely and confidently.
