You need an EU Responsible Person if you sell any consumer product into the European Union and your business is based outside the EU. This applies to UK sellers (post-Brexit), Chinese manufacturers, US brands, and businesses from any non-EU country. If you are based within the EU, you do not need to appoint one — you are the responsible person.
Do I Need an EU Responsible Person?
Answer three questions. Where is your business registered? What do you sell? Where do you sell it? If your business is outside the EU and you sell consumer products to EU customers, you need an EU Responsible Person. No exceptions.
This requirement comes from EU Regulation 2019/1020 (the General Product Safety Regulation). It applies to every product category: electronics, cosmetics, toys, clothing, homeware, accessories, and general consumer goods.
Who Needs an EU Responsible Person?
You need an EU Responsible Person if you match any of these descriptions:
- UK seller exporting to EU: Since Brexit, the UK is a third country. You must appoint an EU-based responsible person.
- Chinese manufacturer selling on Amazon Europe: Amazon requires EU Responsible Person details for every listing.
- US brand selling direct-to-consumer in the EU: Whether Shopify, your own website, or any marketplace.
- Any non-EU business selling physical products to EU customers: Regardless of size, revenue, or sales channel.
Who Does NOT Need an EU Responsible Person?
If your business is registered in an EU member state, you do not need to appoint a separate EU Responsible Person. You are the responsible person under EU law. This applies to businesses in Germany, France, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, and all other EU countries.
Digital-only products and services (software, SaaS, digital downloads) do not require an EU Responsible Person. The regulation applies to physical consumer products only.
What Happens Without an EU Responsible Person?
Amazon suppresses listings within 48 hours of detecting non-compliance. Customs authorities seize shipments at EU borders. Market surveillance authorities issue fines up to €100,000 per member state.
The consequences are immediate and revenue-impacting. There is no grace period. Once enforcement triggers, your products are unsellable in the EU until compliance is established.
What Does an EU Responsible Person Do?
Your EU Responsible Person provides a registered EU address on your product packaging. They hold your technical documentation and compliance files. They act as the contact point for EU market surveillance authorities.
They do not manufacture, distribute, or sell your products. They ensure the regulatory paperwork is in order so your products can legally enter the EU market.
How Do I Get an EU Responsible Person?
With Eldris, the process takes under 60 minutes. You provide your company details and product information. We generate your compliance certificate covering all 27 EU member states. The cost is £195 one-time onboarding with monthly fees from £9.95.
You can also appoint an EU-based individual or company yourself, but they must accept legal responsibility for your products and maintain documentation. Most businesses choose a specialist provider.
Free Compliance Check — 30 Seconds
Not sure what you need? Tell Eldris what you sell and where you are based. We will tell you exactly which compliance applies to you. Talk to Eldris →
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an EU Responsible Person for Amazon?
Yes. Amazon requires EU Responsible Person details for every product listed on Amazon Europe. Without it, your listings will be suppressed.
Can I be my own EU Responsible Person?
Only if you or your business is physically established within the EU. If you are based in the UK, US, China, or any non-EU country, you must appoint someone who is EU-based.
Do I need an EU Responsible Person for each country?
No. One EU Responsible Person covers all 27 EU member states. You do not need a separate appointment per country.
How quickly can I get an EU Responsible Person?
Under 60 minutes with Eldris. You provide your details, we generate your certificate the same day. Most providers take 1–4 weeks.