Since 1993, we have used the CE mark on commercial products, to show conformity with European health, safety, and environmental standards. A requirement to comply with EU legislation which some felt did not sit well with Brexit.
A plan was launched to introduce a British equivalent, the UK Conformity Assessed mark (UKCA). This was more or less a clone of the CE system but there were statements that the plan would provide flexibility and a competitive edge.
Businesses struggled to understand how and only saw fresh cost, without much purpose. An intensive period of lobbying followed, resulting in three delays to the UKCA’s launch and more recently, indefinite postponement.
Current Position
Indefinite postponement is not quite the same as cancellation but comments from government suggest this is the case, with a choice remaining in theory.
Manufacturers are free to use either mark, or use one for the UK and the other on exports. The reason for choosing additional red tape, or batch splitting is hard to grasp, although clarification will follow on certain items.
Most consumer goods can simply use the CE mark, with announcements to come on:
- Medical devices
- Construction products
- Mobile pressure equipment
- Unmanned aircraft systems
- Rail and marine equipment
This is partly because they are covered by different government departments and there seems a reasonable chance that in time, they will follow suit.
Relief In Industry
Companies which have already spent sizeable sums on UKCA compliance will understandably feel aggrieved but overall, UK business is delighted with the outcome. The British Chamber of Commerce said there would be a collective sigh of relief.
Other industry bodies have welcomed what they see as a pragmatic, common sense move. A goverment business minister stated that maintaining CE marking would allow firms to focus their time and money on job creation, on economic growth.
Rational thoughts, which are indicative of a change of heart beyond the CE mark, with the approach to Brexit gradually softening.
Rebuilding The Relationship
As mentioned in a recent post on Brexit developments, from postponing a range of plans, to rejoining Horizon, the UK-EU relationship is changing.
There is little political will for a revamp of the EU deal, with a general election coming, the focus is on pleasing swing voters and avoiding internal warfare. Major moves to amend the status quo are unlikely.
Even so, a thaw is under way which could add to business opportunities. If you need an ATA carnet for the EU, for an exploratory trip, or attending a business exhibition, we will be pleased to help.