Since Brexit came into force in 2021, the legislation of the European Union does not apply in Great Britain anymore. In England, Wales, and Scotland, manufacturers must comply with the UK regulations, whereas Northern Ireland also recognises EU conformity routes.
Recognition of CE marking in the UK
Initially, the United Kingdom planned to recognise the CE marking only until December 2024. However, in August 2023, the government announced an indefinite recognition of the marking. This indefinite recognition applies to 18 regulations covering different goods, such as electronics, toys, machinery, pressure equipment, equipment for potentially explosive atmospheres (ATEX), and personal protective equipment (PPE). Products excluded included medical devices and construction products, among others.
To prevent a shortage of goods on the market and further economic burdens, the latest developments from January 2024 suggest that the UK government intends to expand the recognition of EU requirements for a wider range of products, including the CE marking.
Importantly, the European Union does not recognise the UKCA marking and economic operators based in the UK must comply with the EU requirements.
How to access the UK market with CE marked products
The compliance assessment carried out for the products subject to the indefinite CE marking recognition is sufficient to declare a product to be safe for the UK market. In addition, all non-UK legal manufacturers can appoint an authorised representative to place their products on the Great Britain market. Nonetheless, all non-UK manufacturers of medical devices and IVDs must appoint UK-based responsible person. Given the temporary recognition period of the CE marking in the UK, manufacturers choose the compliance assessment either according to the EU Medical Devices Regulation and IVD Medical Devices Regulation or according to the UK Regulations.
How can Obelis help you?
Obelis is a well-known company in the regulatory sector, offering representative and consultancy services for 35 years. We are the ideal regulatory partner for you: our team will be at your side during the whole compliance process, ensuring that your cosmetic products can enter the UK market without any issues.
Check our cosmetic services and contact us for further information on how we can support your business.
Simona Varrella
Regulatory Intelligence & Innovation Department
26/02/2024
References:
GOV.UK (2024) Guidance – Using the UKCA marking. Retrieved on 21/02/2024.
The information contained on Obelis UK is presented for general information purposes only, without obligation and it has been compiled with the utmost care to ensure it remains up to date. Nevertheless, Obelis Group cannot be held liable for the accuracy and completeness of the information published. Any reliance placed on such information is therefore strictly at the User’s risk.