In force since 12 August 2026

Letting someone else hold the paperwork

A business counting as the manufacturer can appoint someone in writing to deal with authorities on its behalf. The rules call this an authorised representative. That person keeps the declaration and the supporting paperwork available for authorities and answers their questions. They produce documents within 10 days when asked, and can walk away if the business ignores its duties. Records are kept for 5 years for single-use packaging and 10 years for reusable packaging. Writing the technical paperwork is not part of the job.

Worth knowingThis one is optional. The representative needed for selling into another country is a separate matter, and that one is not optional.

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