UK Government to continue recognising European Union’s CE mark indefinitely

The UK Government has announced “an indefinite extension to the use of CE marking for businesses". The move, which the government says is “tackling red tape", comes a under year after it was announced the grace period for applying for UKCA marking would be extended by two years. Now businesses need not bother with the post-Brexit UKCA marking at all, as products that meet the CE standard will be accepted in both the UK and the European Union.

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For the benefit of those unfamiliar with CE marking, it indicates that a product has been assessed by the manufacturer and deemed to meet EU safety, health and environmental protection requirements. It is required for products manufactured anywhere in the world that are then marketed in the EU.

According to CE Marking specialists Conformance, when it comes to the UK’s post-Brexit equivalent, the UKCA mark, manufacturers “have to do exactly the same things as they did to apply the CE mark”. The company adds that “in most cases” they can use the same “standards, risk assessments, test data, and technical files so the only thing which changes is the logo on the product and the words on the Declaration of Conformity.”

When the grace period for the UKCA marking was extended, Shane Brennan, the soon-to-depart head of the Cold Chain Federation, mocked the news via the tweet below.

In light of the indefinite CE marking announcement, the tweet appears to have stood the test of time.

The UK Government had previously stated that the introduction of the UKCA would form part of the country’s “own robust regulatory framework”.

However, following the recent announcement, the UKCA marking could become largely irrelevant.

“The Business Secretary acted urgently on this issue, to prevent a cliff-edge moment in December 2024 when UKCA was set for entry. This intervention will ensure businesses no longer face uncertainty over the regulations and can cut back on unnecessary costs freeing them up to focus on innovation and growth,” said the UK Government in its press release.

Commenting on the decision, UK Business Minister Kevin Hollinrake said:

“The Government is tackling red tape, cutting burdens for business, and creating certainty for firms – we have listened to industry, and we are taking action to deliver. By extending CE marking use across the UK, firms can focus their time and money on creating jobs and growing the economy.”

Stephen Phipson, CEO of Make UK, the manufacturers’ organisation, added:

“This is a pragmatic and common sense decision that manufacturers will very much welcome and support. This announcement will help safeguard the competitiveness of manufacturers and aid the UK as a destination for investment. It should bring more confidence about doing business in the UK and recognises the need to work with the reality of doing business. Make UK has worked extensively with UK Government pushing hard for this decision and we are pleased the ongoing engagement has delivered this positive outcome.”