Investigations by the European Commission have shown that consumers are increasingly being exposed to products that do not meet basic safety requirements. For instance, mystery shoppers buying from online stores such as Temu uncovered, among other things, significant defects in chargers and safety risks in baby toys, including excessive chemical levels and potential choking hazards. According to the Commission, specific consumer risks were insufficiently analysed and documented, as the assessment of goods relied mainly on general assumptions rather than reliable product testing.
Market surveillance authorities are increasingly focusing on thorough risk assessments, detailed documentation, and effective controls, while extending oversight to non-EU companies. Surveillance authorities now plan to intensify their scrutiny of digital trading platforms. With millions of parcels entering the European Union every day, both individual products and the processes behind risk identification, product safety, and consumer information will be subject to closer examination. Whilst European companies invest considerable resources in product safety, labelling and regulatory requirements, cheap imports have been suspected of distorting competition for years.
VERE e.V. is in contact with all relevant stakeholders and keeps its members informed about further developments via the “VERE Insider”.
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