The EU’s GPSR is now in force, with stricter rules targeting non-compliant imaging products.
The General Product Safety Regulation (EU) 2023/988 (GPSR) came into force on 13 December 2024, bringing in tougher safety requirements for products sold to European consumers. If you were caught up in the pre-Christmas rush and missed the compliance deadline, it’s time to take urgent action.
This wide-ranging update replaces the General Product Safety Directive (2001) and applies to all products placed on the EU market, including office imaging products and consumables, unless covered by sector-specific legislation. The GPSR emphasises digitalisation, introducing digital product passports and stronger consumer rights for product recalls.
As previously reported by The Recycler, the regulation is designed to enhance product safety and consumer rights across the EU. More details on the original announcement can be found here.
For businesses that failed to meet the December deadline, the consequences could be severe. Authorities now have enhanced enforcement powers, meaning that non-compliant imaging products—such as printers, cartridges, and toners—are at risk of being withdrawn from sale or facing financial penalties. Here’s what’s at stake:
- Manufacturers and importers of non-OEM cartridges and imaging consumables must now prove compliance through risk assessments, technical documentation, and safety declarations.
- Distributors and resellers can no longer assume their suppliers are compliant—they must ensure that every product they sell meets the GPSR’s stricter standards.
- Third-party remanufacturers, even those already adhering to REACH, RoHS, and WEEE, should review their processes to avoid regulatory gaps.
The GPSR legislation now enables authorities to clamp down on non-compliant products, a move that aligns with ETIRA’s ongoing compliance efforts. Many low-cost, non-OEM new-build cartridges continue to enter the market under misleading claims, lacking CE markings, WEEE compliance, or proper environmental credentials. ETIRA has already identified multiple cases where non-compliant cartridges were falsely marketed as remanufactured, prompting investigations and regulatory actions.
With authorities increasing oversight, companies risk EU-wide product recalls, import restrictions, and potential liability if found in breach of the GPSR. Compliance is no longer optional—it’s a legal requirement.
If compliance steps were overlooked in the pre-holiday rush, businesses should now focus on ensuring their products meet the GPSR requirements. Reviewing product risk assessments and updating compliance documentation is crucial. Third-party and imported cartridges should be carefully examined to confirm their adherence to the new safety rules.
Reputable remanufacturers with strict compliance measures can help businesses navigate the regulatory landscape. Additionally, distributors and resellers must stay informed about their obligations under GPSR, as authorities are closely monitoring compliance in the imaging sector. While OEMs and established remanufacturers are largely prepared, companies dealing in low-cost, non-compliant imports face significant risks.
It’s not too late to take corrective action, but time is running out. Companies must act now to avoid financial penalties and supply chain disruptions. Speaking to compliance specialists or industry bodies like ETIRA is strongly advised to ensure products meet GPSR standards before enforcement actions take effect.
The full text of the GPSR can be accessed via the EU’s official website at eur-lex.europa.eu.
