As online retailer News reports, Amazon is arguing in a US legal dispute that it is not a seller but only a logistics service provider and therefore cannot be held responsible for product recalls. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) takes a different view and is demanding that Amazon informs affected customers and offers refunds. Examples cited in this context include defective carbon monoxide detectors, hair dryers without electric shock protection and children's sleepwear that violates federal flammability standards. Amazon is legally defending itself against this. In the EU, however, the responsibility of online marketplaces is clearly regulated by the new General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR).
What does the GPSR mean for Amazon sellers?
- Responsibility for product safety: Sellers must ensure that their products comply with EU safety standards.
- Recall and information obligations: If a product is classified as unsafe, sellers must co-operate with Amazon and the authorities.
- Consequences of non-compliance: Missing proof of safety or inadequate communication can lead to product removal or sanctions.
Amazon demands GPSR fulfilment from its sellers, but in practice there can always be problems with implementation. Sellers should check their product compliance carefully to avoid recalls and bans.
Is your company affected by the GPSR? Take action now! trade-e-bility will be happy to answer your questions on +49/40/750687-300 or sales@trade-e-bility.de.
