The EU Responsible Person Requirement Explained
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If you’re a non-EU brand selling consumer products in Europe, you are legally required to appoint an EU Responsible Person. This requirement comes from the General Product Safety Regulation (Regulation EU 2023/988), which replaced the older GPSD in 2024.
In this article, we explain what an EU Responsible Person is, why your business needs one, and how GPSR Solutions helps you meet this obligation with clarity and full documentation support.
What Is an EU Responsible Person?
An EU Responsible Person (EU RP) is a legal entity based in the European Union that accepts regulatory responsibility for a non-EU manufacturer or brand. This includes verifying product safety compliance, maintaining documentation, and serving as the contact point for EU authorities.
The name and address of the RP must appear on the product, packaging, or user documentation. Without this, your goods may be stopped at the EU border or removed from online marketplaces.
Key responsibilities include:
- Verifying that your product meets GPSR safety and documentation requirements
- Maintaining a complete risk assessment and technical file
- Handling contact with EU authorities during inspections or recalls
- Staying informed about safety concerns or updates to EU law
Why Do You Need an EU Responsible Person?
If your company is based outside the EU and sells products to EU customers, the law requires you to appoint an EU Responsible Person. This applies whether you sell directly, through distributors, or on platforms like Amazon or Etsy.
Without an EU RP, your business risks:
- Blocked imports at customs
- Product delistings on online marketplaces
- Fines and enforcement by national authorities
You can explore our GPSR compliance bundles to choose a service plan that fits your business size.
Who Qualifies as an EU Responsible Person?
A valid EU RP must be:
- Legally established in a Member State of the European Union
- Formally authorized by the brand through written mandate
- Capable of fulfilling regulatory tasks under Regulation (EU) 2023/988
This excludes shipping agents and freight forwarders. Your Responsible Person must have access to your full technical file and accept legal responsibility under EU law.
What Products Require an EU RP?
The requirement applies to all non-food consumer products sold under your brand in the EU. These include:
- Home goods and electronics
- Textiles, apparel, and accessories
- Jewelry, lifestyle, and hobby items
- Decor and novelty products
Some products may also fall under other EU laws (e.g. CE marking, REACH, Toy Safety Directive). For more detail, read our full GPSR requirements guide.
How an EU Responsible Person Supports Your Business
Here’s what an appointed EU RP will do:
- Check your labeling and packaging for legal accuracy
- Store your GPSR technical documentation
- Report serious incidents or hazards to national authorities
- Support you in the event of a product recall
- Ensure long-term compliance with evolving EU rules
Why Choose GPSR Solutions?
GPSR Solutions is dedicated to helping non-EU brands meet their General Product Safety Regulation obligations efficiently and professionally. All of our service plans include:
- EU-based Responsible Person (registered in Germany)
- GPSR declaration of compliance
- Labeling checks and technical file guidance
- Ongoing regulatory monitoring and document storage
Whether you manage one product or a large catalog, our bundles scale with your business needs. See our compliance bundles to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an EU Responsible Person required for all non-EU brands?
Yes. If your brand is not established in the EU and you sell to EU consumers, you must appoint an EU RP under Regulation (EU) 2023/988.
What does an EU Responsible Person do?
They confirm your product meets safety rules, hold technical documents, handle authority communications, and assist in product recalls or safety incidents.
Where should the RP’s address appear?
The Responsible Person’s name and EU address must appear on the product, packaging, or user manual. This is legally required for traceability and contact.
Can a logistics provider act as my EU RP?
No. Only a qualified EU entity with formal authorization can act as your Responsible Person. Logistics companies usually do not accept this legal responsibility.
How do I appoint GPSR Solutions as my Responsible Person?
Just select a plan, upload your documents, and we’ll handle the rest. You’ll receive a signed mandate and GPSR Declaration to include with your products.
Get Started with Compliance
Ensure your business meets all EU requirements and avoid disruptions to your sales. Contact us today or choose a bundle to appoint GPSR Solutions as your EU Responsible Person.
GPSR Solutions – EU Compliance Made Simple.