UK: Import labels to go digital with new laws

British businesses are poised to experience cost and efficiency improvements as import labels undergo a digital transformation.

The shift to digital labelling enables businesses to upload essential regulatory and manufacturing information online, eliminating the need for physical printing on products. This not only saves time and resources but also allows companies to redirect these savings towards scaling up and expanding their operations.

Recognition of CE marking for products such as toys and machinery will continue, alleviating compliance burdens on businesses. The transition to digital labelling has become possible post-Brexit, offering greater flexibility compared to the EU's regulatory requirements. The change better aligns with the contemporary business landscape, emphasising the importance of digitisation in international trade.

This development follows the Product Safety Review consultation and extensive industry engagement, focusing on cost reduction, consumer benefits, and ensuring a nimble regulatory system. The industry's consistent call for a move towards digital labelling underscores the alignment of this measure with business priorities and industry needs.

Business and Trade Minister Kevin Hollinrake said: I know first-hand the difficulties businesses face with regulations and red tape, and what we’re announcing today will not only ease business burdens and costs but will enable them to spend their time growing their companies and creating jobs. We’ve worked closely with multiple sectors to create policy that works for them and this is another step in the right direction to back British businesses.