In a significant move applauded by manufacturers, the UK has decided to retain the EU’s product safety CE mark indefinitely, rather than enforcing its own post-Brexit alternative.
The CE (Conformite Europeenne) mark is a certification used by the European Union to indicate that various products, ranging from electrical goods to medical devices, meet safety standards.
Originally, the UK intended to replace the CE mark with the UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) mark for goods sold in Great Britain starting from December 2024.
However, following calls from businesses to extend the use of CE marking, the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) has decided on this indefinite extension to reduce uncertainty and costs for manufacturers during a challenging economic period.
CE Mark’s Continuation:
The decision to extend the use of CE marking in the UK is a response to concerns raised by businesses about the additional costs and complications associated with adopting new regulations.
By retaining the CE mark, companies can avoid the burden of adopting a new marking system and focus more on addressing the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
This indefinite extension ensures that manufacturers no longer face uncertainties and unnecessary expenses, enabling them to allocate resources towards innovation and growth rather than compliance matters.
Minimizing Red Tape and Certainty for Firms:
The move to extend the CE marking system across the UK demonstrates the government’s commitment to reducing red tape and providing certainty for businesses.
Business Minister Kevin Hollinrake highlighted the government’s efforts to cut burdens for businesses and create an environment where firms can concentrate on job creation and economic growth.
By streamlining the certification process and avoiding the need for an immediate switch to the UKCA mark, the government aims to foster a more supportive environment for businesses.
Favorable Reception from Industry:
The decision has garnered positive responses from industry representatives.
Tina McKenzie, policy chairwoman of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), expressed satisfaction with the continuation of CE marked products, which allows small firms time to adapt to the UKCA marking system while focusing on their business growth in both domestic and international markets.
Stephen Phipson, chief executive of Make UK, the manufacturers’ organization, echoed the sentiment, calling it a pragmatic and common-sense decision.
Phipson emphasized that this announcement will safeguard the competitiveness of manufacturers and attract more investment to the UK.
The decision reflects a recognition of the practicalities of doing business and demonstrates fruitful collaboration between Make UK and the UK Government.
Conclusion:
The UK’s decision to retain the CE mark indefinitely, instead of mandating the UKCA mark, comes as a relief to manufacturers who were concerned about the added costs and uncertainties.
By providing businesses with a clearer regulatory landscape, the government aims to stimulate economic growth and innovation.
The extension of CE marking offers companies more time to adjust to the new requirements while concentrating on their core objectives of expansion and development.
This move is seen as a positive step toward ensuring the UK remains an attractive destination for investment and business operations.