China Sourcing for European Buyers
The European Union is China's second-largest export market. EU compliance requirements (CE marking, REACH, RoHS) are more prescriptive than most other markets, but once met, they grant access to 450 million consumers across 27 countries. Here's what European importers need to know about sourcing from China.
Trade at a Glance
Key Challenges for European Buyers Buyers
CE Marking Compliance
Most products sold in the EU require CE marking. This involves conformity assessment, technical documentation, and a Declaration of Conformity.
REACH & RoHS
REACH restricts hazardous chemicals. RoHS limits heavy metals in electronics. Both require testing at accredited labs.
EU Customs & VAT
Import duties + 19–27% VAT depending on destination country. EORI number required. ICS2 pre-arrival declarations mandatory.
Product Safety Directive
EU's General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) requires responsible persons within the EU and proper traceability.
Top Products Sourced by European Buyers Buyers
- check_circleConsumer electronics and smart devices
- check_circleLED lighting and home automation
- check_circleSmall home appliances (fans, humidifiers, air purifiers)
- check_circleAI-powered devices and IoT products
- check_circleFurniture and home goods
- check_circleIndustrial components and machinery parts
CE Marking: The Key to the EU Market
CE marking is not a certification — it's a manufacturer's declaration that the product meets all applicable EU directives. The process involves:
- Identify which EU directives apply to your product (e.g., LVD for electrical, EMC for electronics, RED for radio equipment).
- Meet the essential requirements of each applicable directive.
- Have conformity testing done at an accredited lab (if required by the directive).
- Create technical documentation (technical file).
- Issue a Declaration of Conformity (DoC).
- Affix the CE mark to the product.
REACH & RoHS Requirements
REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) restricts over 200 substances. RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) limits 10 substances in electrical equipment. Both require:
- Material testing at an accredited laboratory (SGS, TÜV, Bureau Veritas)
- REACH SVHC (Substances of Very High Concern) declaration from suppliers
- RoHS compliance testing for all electronic products
- Documentation maintained for 10+ years
EU Import Logistics
Major EU entry ports include Rotterdam (Netherlands), Hamburg (Germany), and Piraeus (Greece). Key requirements:
- EORI number: Required for all EU importers (register with your national customs authority).
- ICS2 declarations: Pre-arrival safety and security data required for all shipments.
- Customs valuation: Transaction value plus freight and insurance costs to the EU border.
- VAT: Paid at import (19% Germany, 20% France, 21% Netherlands, 22% Italy, etc.).
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