EU agrees new rules to digitalise product compliance
07/09/26
The European Parliament and Council have reached a provisional agreement to digitalise product compliance requirements across the Single Market. The new rules introduce digital documentation and electronic exchanges with authorities, while preserving safeguards for consumers and essential safety information.
The European Parliament and the Council have finally reached a provisional agreement on new rules to digitalise product compliance requirements across the Single Market. The measures are part of the fourth EU simplification package, Omnibus IV, and will amend 20 pieces of EU product legislation.
The agreement introduces a “digital by default” approach to product documentation, with the aim of reducing paper-based requirements and administrative costs for businesses. In particular, EU declarations of conformity will be digitalised and exchanges between economic operators and competent national authorities will take place electronically. Companies will also have to provide a direct digital contact, such as an email address or contact form, allowing consumers and authorities to reach them without having to register or download a specific application.
Manufacturers will also be able to provide product instructions digitally. However, safeguards remain in place for consumers, in fact where there is a risk of serious harm, safety information must continue to be provided on paper or directly on the product. Consumers will also retain the possibility of requesting paper instructions.
A second key element concerns common specifications. In exceptional cases where appropriate harmonised standards are unavailable, the Commission will be able to adopt common specifications that companies may use to demonstrate compliance with EU product requirements. Under the provisional agreement, this mechanism is intended as a fallback solution rather than an alternative to the European standardisation system.
The measures are designed to create a more consistent digital framework for product compliance across sectors, while reducing administrative burdens and preserving consumer access to essential safety information. The provisional agreement must now be formally adopted by the European Parliament and the Council before entering into force.