Swiss Amazon Merchants and the EU Market Surveillance Regulation

This article dates from 2 June 2023. Laws, rates and deadlines may have changed since – ask us for the current situation.

In the age of global online trade, the European market is attractive for many Swiss retailers. But successful expansion into this market requires not only knowledge of customer preferences and market conditions, but also an understanding of and compliance with a wide range of EU regulations. One of the key regulations that a Swiss trader on Amazon must comply with is the EU Market Surveillance Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2019/1020).

Understanding the EU Market Surveillance Regulation

The EU Market Surveillance Regulation aims to ensure the safety and conformity of all products placed on the EU market. This regulation requires that there be an economic operator established in the EU for each product sold on the EU market. This economic operator may be the manufacturer, the importer, the distributor or an authorized representative appointed by the manufacturer or importer. This person is responsible for providing, upon request, all relevant documents and information that demonstrate the product’s compliance with EU regulations.

Product selection and import into the EU

The selection of products for sale is a critical process that should take into account several aspects. First, the retailer must ensure that the products it selects for sale comply with EU regulations. These regulations can vary depending on the product category and usually require certain safety tests and documentation. An important requirement for many products is the CE marking, which confirms that the product complies with the applicable EU regulations.

Possible solutions and the role of ORSINI Treuhand AG

Swiss merchants selling on Amazon have several options to meet the requirements of the EU Market Surveillance Regulation. One option is to appoint an EU Authorized Representative to take responsibility for the conformity of the product. Another option is to establish a branch or subsidiary in the EU.

This is where ORSINI Treuhand AG comes into play. With an extensive international network and in-depth knowledge of EU regulations, ORSINI Treuhand AG can effectively support Swiss traders. She can help find a suitable EU representative, manage the process of establishing an EU subsidiary, and advise on how to ensure and document product compliance.

How the process works

The first step in working with ORSINI Treuhand AG is a consultation to discuss the specific needs and goals of the company. Based on this discussion, our team develops a customized strategy that aligns EU compliance with the company’s business objectives.

Throughout the process, the ORSINI Treuhand AG team is available to answer questions and assist in the implementation of the strategy. This includes identifying suitable products, assisting with compliance with safety standards, advising on the appointment of an EU representative or the establishment of an EU subsidiary, and ensuring that all necessary documentation and information is available and accessible.

Understanding and following the EU Market Surveillance Regulation is essential for success in the European market. However, with the right support and advice, Swiss distributors can ensure they are compliant while successfully offering their products to the European market. With the support of experts like ORSINI Treuhand AG, they can follow this path with confidence.

General information, not individual advice.