The European Commission found that AliExpress did not do enough to stop the sale of:
- Counterfeit products
- Unsafe toys
- Problematic cosmetics
The Commission found severe problems with risk checks, product monitoring and action against repeat offenders. In some cases, products stayed online for weeks after being reported. AliExpress must now fix these issues. However, the company has said it will challenge the decision.
EU increases pressure on online marketplaces
The AliExpress fine follows a 200-million-euro fine against Temu for similar problems, including unsafe toys and faulty electrical products. The EU is making its position clear: large online marketplaces must take responsibility for the products sold on their platforms. These measures also aim to protect fair competition in the EU single market. Businesses that follow EU safety and quality rules should not be put at a disadvantage by companies selling illegal or unsafe products.
What does this mean for EU businesses?
The stricter rules affect more than online marketplaces. Producers, importers, retailers and distributors must make sure their products follow EU regulations. This includes requirements for:
- Product safety and quality
- Digital and marketplace rules
- Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
- Other EU compliance requirements
Companies should review their supply chains and make sure they meet all legal requirements when selling products in the EU.
VERE e.V. is in contact with the relevant stakeholders and keeps its members informed of further developments via the “VERE Insider”.
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