1. What is an Authorized Representative?

An Authorized Representative is a legal or natural person established within the EU who acts on behalf of a non-EU manufacturer. Their primary role is to ensure that the manufacturer complies with EU regulations and to serve as the main point of contact for authorities, importers, and distributors.

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Key responsibilities include:

• ‍Ensuring Regulatory Compliance
  ‍Verifying and maintaining the product’s Declaration of Conformity (DoC) and technical documentation.‍
• Acting as a Local Liaison
  ‍Managing communication with EU authorities during inspections, inquiries, or compliance checks.‍
• Storing Documentation
  Retaining technical files for up to 10 years, as required by EU regulations.
  Post-Market Support
  Monitoring product safety and assisting with recalls or safety concerns.

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2. Why do you need an Authorized Representative?

Appointing an Authorized Representative is not just a legal requirement - it’s a vital step in securing your business’s success in the EU market.

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Here’s why:

1. Mandatory Compliance
   Regulations like Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 and the upcoming General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) (effective December 2024) make it compulsory for non-EU manufacturers to appoint an EU-based economic operator.
2. Regulatory Enforcement
   Without an AR, your products may face customs denials, fines, or removal frome-commerce platforms like Amazon and Alibaba, which require visible EU economicoperator details.
3. Risk Mitigation
   An AR ensures your products meet safety and compliance requirements, reducing risks of penalties, recalls, or reputational damage.
4. Seamless Market Access
   ARs manage compliance documentation and regulatory communication, allowing forquick and smooth market entry.

3. Industries and Products requiring an Authorised Representative

Many industries, particularly those in the B2B sector, require an Authorized Representative to meet EU regulations.

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Common examples include:

• ‍Industrial Machinery: Tools and equipment used in manufacturing.
• ‍Electronics: Measuring instruments, energy-efficient devices, and industrial controllers.‍
• Construction Products: Building materials and systems.‍
• Medical Devices: Products requiring extensive compliance documentation.‍
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gloves, masks, helmets, and goggles.

Not sure if your product requires an Authorized Representative?

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Contact us to clarify your specific compliance needs.

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4. What happens without an Authorized Representative?

Failing to appoint an Authorized Representative can lead to several costly consequences:

• ‍Customs Denials: Products without proper documentation or an economic operator’s address may be denied entry or destroyed at customs.‍
• E-Commerce Restrictions: Platforms like Amazon may block or remove non-compliant product listings.
• Fines and Penalties: Regulatory authorities can impose significant fines for non-compliance.‍
• Product Recalls: Unsafe products may be recalled, causing financial and reputational harm.‍
• Supply Chain Disruptions: Non-compliant products may cause delays for distributors and end-users.

5. How an Authorized Representative adds value to your business

An Authorized Representative isn’t just about compliance - it’s about creating a smoother path to success in the EU market.

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Here’s how:

• ‍Ensures LegalCompliance
  Your AR ensures your products meet all EU requirements, from technical documentation to labeling, allowing you to focus on growing your business.‍
• AcceleratesTime-to-Market
  With an AR handling compliance, your business can avoid delays caused by incomplete or inaccurate documentation.‍
• Minimizes Risk
  By acting as your local compliance partner, an AR reduces the likelihood of recalls, fines, or reputational damage.‍
• Enhances CustomerTrust
  Displaying your AR’s contact details on your products reassures distributors, importers, and end-users about your commitment to safety and quality.

6. Why Representa is your trusted Partner?

At Representa GmbH, we specialize in helping non-EU manufacturers navigate the complexities of EU compliance. Our team has the expertise to handle all aspects of regulatory compliance, ensuring your products enter the EU market smoothly and confidently.

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What we offer:

• ‍Fast Onboarding: Begin using our AR services within 24 hours.‍
• Comprehensive Compliance Support: We manage all regulatory requirements, from documentation to post-market surveillance.‍
• Proactive Monitoring: We stay ahead of regulatory changes, keeping your products compliant at all times.‍
• Dedicated Expertise: Our experience with EU market entry ensures you have a trusted partner every step of the way.

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Take the first step towards EU Market Success

Don’t let regulatory hurdles prevent your business from accessing the EU’s vast market potential. Appointing an Authorized Representative isn’t just about meeting legal requirements - it’s about unlocking new opportunities and protecting your brand.

Contact Representa today to learn how we can simplify your EU compliance and help your business thrive in Europe.

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