The Department for Business and Trade has announced an indefinite extension to the use of CE marking for UK businesses.
This decision means that UKCA marking will no longer be mandatory from the end of December 2024, as per previous arrangements for most products.
The government states this is part of a “wider package of smarter regulations designed to ease business burdens and help grow the economy by cutting barriers and red tape. Following extensive engagement with industry, British firms will be able to continue the use of CE marking alongside UKCA.”
However, construction products and some other items fall under different rules. When supplying to the GB market (England, Wales and Scotland), the government will end recognition of the CE mark in GB for construction products on 30 June 2025. Current rules, which allow for continued recognition of the CE mark, will remain in place until legislation is laid to end recognition of the CE mark. DLUHC will set out their proposals for reform of the construction products regime in due course.
To use the UKCA mark, businesses must ensure they are using a UK-approved body for testing and certification for all products supplied to the GB market, which are covered by a designated standard or conform to a UK technical assessment issued for that product.
Following the announcement today, Tina McKenzie, Policy Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), said:
“It’s welcome to see the continued recognition of CE marked products. This will allow time for small firms to adjust to the UKCA marking system and focus on growing their business both at home and overseas.”
Stephen Phipson, CEO of Make UK, the manufacturers’ organisation, said:
“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.”
Click here for further guidance on construction products regulation in Great Britain.