The European Commission is expected to present, on 30 September, a proposal to update the European rules on technical standardisation, as part of the forthcoming European Product Act package.

The aim is to make the process for developing these standards faster, more digital and more accessible, particularly for SMEs and startups.

European standards of this kind establish common technical specifications for products, services and processes. In many sectors, including machinery manufacturing, electrical equipment, construction, mobility and digital products, they help manufacturers, importers and distributors demonstrate compliance with European Union rules, thereby facilitating the marketing of their products across the EU internal market.

According to the Commission, the current system does not always keep pace with innovation. This issue is particularly evident in technical areas such as data governance, environmental labelling, digital technologies, batteries and renewable energy. Lengthy procedures and the difficulty of monitoring their progress create additional costs, affecting the competitiveness of the European economy and, in particular, small and medium-sized enterprises.

The options under consideration include clarifying the deadlines applicable to the different stages of the technical standards development process, increasing the use of digital tools and providing greater support for the participation of SMEs, startups, academia and civil society.

This review may have a direct impact on manufacturers, importers, distributors and service providers operating in the European market.

Further details of the proposal will be known following the official presentation of the European Product Act package, scheduled for 30 September.

Our team is available to provide further information.