EU Responsible Person (RP) for Amazon Sellers

EU Responsible Person (RP) is a requirement for non-EU sellers who wish to sell certain products, particularly in the European Union (EU), through platforms like Amazon.

In the context of Amazon, an RP is a person or entity based in the EU who is responsible for ensuring that the products sold on the platform comply with EU regulations and standards, particularly concerning safety, labeling, and compliance with the EU’s Product Safety and Compliance laws.

If you are selling products on Amazon in the EU, you may be required to appoint an EU Responsible Person (EU RP) depending on the type of products you sell. This is to ensure compliance with EU regulations, which Amazon enforces as part of its seller requirements.

Key Points About the Role of the RP:

 

Legal Requirement: Non-EU sellers (outside the EU) need to appoint an EU-based Responsible Person to comply with EU regulations, particularly for products like cosmetics, medical devices, and electronics.

Responsibilities of the RP:

    • Ensures products meet EU safety standards.
    • Keeps relevant documentation for the products (such as product specifications, safety reports, etc.).
    • Assists in communication with EU authorities if needed, particularly during inspections or regulatory checks.
    • Handles any issues related to product recalls and safety concerns.

Amazon’s Role: For sellers on Amazon, when listing products that require an RP, Amazon may ask for confirmation of this appointment to ensure regulatory compliance. Failure to do so can result in the removal of the product listing or suspension of the seller account.

Who Can Be an RP?: The Responsible Person can be a third-party service provider, a registered agent, or a representative located in the EU. It cannot be an entity that does not have a physical presence within the EU.

Impact on Sellers: The RP is crucial for non-EU sellers who want to sell regulated products in the EU market, helping them navigate compliance and ensuring their business stays operational in the EU.

When Do You Need an EU Responsible Person?

You need an EU RP if you sell:

  1. Medical Devices – Required under EU MDR 2017/745 (e.g., face masks, thermometers).
  2. Cosmetic Products – Required under EU Regulation 1223/2009 (e.g., skincare, makeup).
  3. Toys – Required under EU Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC.
  4. Electronics (CE Marking) – If your product requires CE marking, an EU RP or Authorised Representative may be needed.
  5. Food Supplements – Some food and health-related products require an EU RP for safety compliance.

What Does an EU Responsible Person Do?

 

  • Ensures your products comply with EU regulations.
  • Holds technical documentation (safety assessments, certifications, etc.).
  • Acts as the point of contact for EU authorities.
  • Manages safety reports and recalls, if necessary.
  • Registers products in EU databases (e.g., CPNP for cosmetics, EUDAMED for medical devices).

Amazon’s Requirement for an EU RP

Amazon enforces compliance by asking sellers to provide details of their EU Responsible Person before listing regulated products. If you fail to appoint an RP, Amazon may suspend your listings.

If you are a non-EU seller using Amazon and selling products that require an EU Responsible Person, you will need to find and appoint one before your listings can go live in the EU market.

For detailed information and assistance, businesses are encouraged to consult the FZCO Accountants Limited or seek professional tax advisory services. Let me know!