Appointing an EU Responsible Person for GPSR Compliance
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If you're selling non-food consumer products in the European Union, appointing an EU Responsible Person is a legal requirement. Under the General Product Safety Regulation (Regulation EU 2023/988), non-EU brands must designate a representative established in the EU to act on their behalf.
This article explains what an EU Responsible Person is, why your business needs one, and how to appoint the right partner.
What Is an EU Responsible Person?
An EU Responsible Person (EU RP) is a legal entity or individual based in the European Union who takes on defined legal obligations for a non-EU manufacturer or brand. This includes verifying compliance, holding technical files, and acting as a contact point for EU authorities.
The EU RP must be identified on your product, packaging, or accompanying documentation. Without this, customs or marketplaces may block your goods from being sold in the EU.
Key responsibilities include:
- Maintaining your technical documentation for inspection
- Verifying compliance with EU product safety rules
- Communicating with EU market surveillance authorities
- Assisting with incident reporting, recalls, or corrective actions
Why Do You Need an EU Responsible Person?
If your company is based outside the EU and sells products to EU consumers, you must appoint an EU RP. Without one, your products cannot be lawfully placed on the EU market.
Failure to appoint an EU RP may lead to:
- Blocked shipments and customs rejections
- Product listings being removed from marketplaces
- Regulatory fines and enforcement actions
Who Qualifies as an EU Responsible Person?
To act as your EU RP, the person or entity must:
- Be established in an EU Member State
- Be formally appointed in writing by your company
- Have access to your complete GPSR technical file and be capable of working with EU regulators
Freight forwarders and customs brokers are not compliant options. Your EU RP must understand product safety laws and fulfill legal obligations to protect EU consumers.
What Products Require an EU Responsible Person?
The EU RP requirement under the GPSR applies to all non-food consumer products, including:
- Home goods and small electronics
- Textiles, apparel, and accessories
- Crafts and lifestyle items
- Jewelry and personal accessories
- Children’s items that are not toys
Some products may also fall under other frameworks such as the Toy Safety Directive, Medical Device Regulation, or CE marking rules. Your EU RP should understand which apply. For full details, see the official text of Regulation (EU) 2023/988.
How an EU Responsible Person Helps You Stay Compliant
A qualified EU RP typically:
- Reviews your product design and labeling
- Evaluates material safety and documentation
- Maintains required records for 10 years
- Handles urgent notifications and corrective actions
- Responds to consumer safety inquiries from EU authorities
For more details, visit our guide: What You Need for GPSR Compliance.
How GPSR Solutions Can Support You
At GPSR Solutions, we offer EU Responsible Person representation to help non-EU businesses meet their legal obligations under Regulation (EU) 2023/988.
Our services include:
- EU RP address and registration in Germany
- Technical documentation reviews and safety labeling validation
- Ongoing updates and risk assessment support
- Compliance services for startups, SMEs, and established brands
How to Get Started
Contact us for tailored support. We explain the requirements, guide you through documentation and labeling, and ensure your products meet all GPSR obligations efficiently and professionally.
Need help choosing the right service?
Contact GPSR Solutions for a free consultation. We’ll explain the process based on your products and business needs.
Conclusion
If you’re serious about selling in the EU, appointing an EU Responsible Person is a legal obligation. With the right partner, it’s a straightforward step toward compliance and reliable EU market access.
Appoint GPSR Solutions as your EU Responsible Person and meet your legal duties under Regulation (EU) 2023/988 efficiently and with expert support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an EU Responsible Person required for all non-EU brands?
Yes. Under Regulation (EU) 2023/988, all non-EU brands selling consumer products in the EU must appoint a Responsible Person established in the EU. Without one, products cannot legally be placed on the EU market.
What does an EU Responsible Person do?
The EU RP verifies GPSR compliance, ensures documentation is in place, acts as contact point for EU authorities, and supports incident reporting, recalls, and inquiries.
Where should the Responsible Person’s address appear?
The RP’s name and address must appear on the product, packaging, or accompanying document. This is required for customs clearance and market surveillance.
Can a freight forwarder or customs agent act as an EU RP?
No. Only a qualified entity established in the EU can legally act as an RP. Freight forwarders and agents do not meet this requirement.
What happens if I don’t appoint an EU Responsible Person?
Products may be blocked by customs, removed from marketplaces, or subject to regulatory enforcement. Lack of an RP is a serious compliance gap under EU law.