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If you’ve ever come across a product with various symbols on it, you may have wondered what each of them means. Typically, these small icons communicate that a product complies with specific standards and regulatory requirements.
Different industries and regions have varying compliance marks and symbols, so it’s always wise to stay informed about the ones that apply to your products. Whether you’re exporting goods or focusing on local markets, clear and accurate labelling builds consumer trust and ensures you avoid costly legal pitfalls.
One of these symbols is the CE mark. If you’re selling products overseas – particularly into the European Union – then you might need to affix this mark. Keep reading to learn more about what it means in 2025 and how it affects your business.
What Is A CE Mark?
The CE mark stands for Conformité Européenne and indicates that the product has met the European Union’s standards. It is composed of the letters C and E, each of equal dimensions and no smaller than 5mm in height, serving as a declaration of conformity to the relevant EU directives.
Is A CE Mark Mandatory?
A CE mark is mandatory only for products that fall under specific EU directives. You can find a comprehensive list of products requiring a CE mark here. It is illegal to affix the CE mark on products that do not require it, so make sure the product you plan to label indeed meets the criteria.
What Countries Use The CE Mark?
Currently, many countries require or recognise the CE mark. These include:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Turkey
- United Kingdom (Note: In Great Britain, the new UKCA mark is now mandatory for most products, although transitional arrangements may apply. The CE mark remains in use for products sold in Northern Ireland and for exports to other regions.)
I’m An Australian Business – Do I Need A CE Mark?
Australia does not use the CE mark in domestic markets. As a result, if you are operating solely within Australia, you don’t need to display this symbol. Instead, you must comply with local product labelling and packaging requirements under Australian law. For more guidance on compliance, you might also find our article on Registering a Business in Australia useful.
However, if your Australian business exports to overseas markets – particularly to the EU or Great Britain – you may need to secure and display a CE mark, or the applicable regional equivalent, such as the UKCA mark where required.
I Conduct Business In The EU – Do I Need A CE Mark Logo?
If you are an Australian business that sells products in the EU, you may be required to designate your products with a CE mark. The product must fall under the list of items mandated by EU directives before it can be legally marketed.
If your products are manufactured within the EU or overseas, the same compliance principles apply. It’s critical to regularly review the relevant EU standards, as updates in 2025 may affect which products require the mark.
How Do I Get A CE Mark Logo?
There isn’t a special licence or application form to obtain a CE mark. Instead, you or your manufacturer are responsible for affixing the mark to any product that falls within the regulated categories.
Before you do so, however, there are several essential steps to follow:
- Ensure the product meets all applicable EU standards and requirements.
- Decide whether the product can be assessed internally or if it requires evaluation by a notified body – choose the appropriate route.
- Prepare a technical dossier detailing the product’s compliance.
- Sign the EU Declaration of Conformity.
Once you have gathered the relevant documentation and confirmed your product’s compliance, you may affix the CE mark. Retain all supporting documents carefully, as authorities may request them during an inspection.
What Is The Australian Equivalent Of A CE Mark?
For Australian businesses not operating in countries that require the CE mark, there is a domestic equivalent – the Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM). This mark indicates that products, particularly those in the electrical and communications sectors, meet the mandatory Australian standards.
How To Get An Australian RCM
The Australian Communications Media Authority (ACMA) is responsible for the RCM. To attain the RCM, you must complete a series of steps:
- Ensure the product meets all relevant compliance standards.
- Prepare a comprehensive product description.
- Obtain test reports by having the product tested for compliance.
- Secure certification for product compliance.
- Prepare a ‘supplier’s declaration of conformity’.
- File all the documents in a compliance folder and keep them accessible.
- Apply for a Responsible Supplier Number.
- Label the product appropriately.
Product Labelling Requirements In Australia
Whether you’re using compliance marks for the domestic market or for export, it’s crucial to label your products correctly and ensure all certifications are clearly displayed.
Under the Australian Consumer Law, honest and transparent labelling is a key requirement. Consumers have the right to know the origin, ingredients, and other essential details of their products. Failure to provide accurate information can lead to allegations of misleading and deceptive conduct.
It is also wise to periodically review your product labels and compliance documentation – especially given regulatory updates in 2025. For additional guidance, our Business Setup Checklist offers useful tips for keeping all your legal obligations in check.
With the growing global market in 2025, staying up-to-date with both local and international regulatory changes is more important than ever. Regular reviews of your compliance documentation can help avoid disruptions to your supply chain and bolster your brand’s reputation for quality and safety. For tailored advice on navigating these complexities, consider consulting our experienced legal team.
Key Takeaways
If you’re selling or manufacturing products overseas, you may require a CE mark or its regional equivalent. Preparing the correct documentation can seem complex – so it’s prudent to consult a legal professional to ensure your process is current and compliant in 2025.
To summarise what we’ve discussed:
- A CE mark is a compliance certification that indicates a product meets EU standards.
- Over 25 countries currently recognise the CE mark, although in Great Britain most products now require the UKCA mark.
- There is no central registration for the CE mark; if your product falls under the mandated categories, it’s your responsibility to secure the necessary documentation.
- The Australian equivalent of the CE mark is the RCM, which involves a similar process to ensure compliance.
- Honest and transparent product labelling is not only a legal requirement under the ACL but also essential for building consumer trust.
If you would like a consultation on obtaining a CE mark, or need expert advice on your product compliance and labelling, please reach out to us at 1800 730 617 or team@sprintlaw.com.au for a free, no-obligations chat. Additionally, if you’re planning to expand your business overseas, our article on How To Start Business Overseas is an excellent resource.
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