Between 7 and 10 September, the European Commission is hosting this year’s International Product Safety Week, bringing together professionals from around the world to share their views and best practices on product safety.
Following yesterday’s productive discussions on rapid alert systems and standards, the second day of the event began with an opening address by Commissioner Michael McGrath (Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection). In his address, Commissioner McGrath questioned how product safety can remain in motion. He outlined three key areas that require attention. Firstly, product safety must be continually reassessed, which is why the European Commission is currently drafting a European Product Act. Secondly, enforcement must be enhanced through strengthened cooperation with international partners. Thirdly, product safety must be considered within wider policy objectives such as sustainability goals. Turning to e-commerce, Commissioner McGrath outlined the challenges that product safety is facing amid the surge in low-value imports. He also mentioned the Customs reform as a positive step towards addressing these challenges. Referring to the second product safety sweep, the results of which were published yesterday, Commissioner McGrath noted that significant gaps remain in today’s framework. Finally, he reiterated the European Commission’s support for the circular economy, safe and sustainable products and circular business models.
During the first panel of the second day, speakers explored how product safety can keep pace with the ever-changing landscape of e-commerce. Participants noted that, although the EU has a strong framework, many of its rules are new and require further guidelines and a holistic approach. Enforcement challenges were often mentioned as a key issue, and the European Commission, who were present on the panel, confirmed that this is a crucial part of ongoing reflections on revising the framework. In this context, the panelists agreed that better cooperation, coordination and knowledge sharing among the various enforcement authorities would be crucial, given the resource limitations. The discussion also covered the opportunities that new technologies, such as AI and the Digital Product Passport, can bring, as well as the associated risks. The fast-moving nature of the e-commerce sector was recognised, with emerging business models such as live and agentic commerce instigating change in supply chains. In this context, it is essential that enforcement authorities adapt to ensure that products sold to EU consumers are safe.
International Product Safety Week continues over the next few days, with discussions delving into innovation, compliance, consumer trust, child safety, and various panels on product safety enforcement.