Due to varying product requirements and assessment procedures, products marketed in different economic areas must be assessed according to the applicable local requirements. Through trade agreements with third countries, the EU wants to lower the associated market entry barriers for economic operators. In principle, this can be achieved either through harmonisation or through mutual recognition of the corresponding product requirements or assessment procedures or bodies. A harmonisation of the different requirements from the respective regulatory areas is not very realistic in practice, though. What is more realistic is the mutual recognition of the respective requirements. However, this comes with the risk of lowering the level of protection in the EU.
What needs to be done
- Ensure a high level of protection
- Enable one-stop shop assessments
- Create a level playing field
Download the complete Policy Sheet here
"Trade Policy: Ensure high EU product standards in trade agreements"