Product Safety Around the World: The Ultimate Guide to International Product Compliance

Armenia

Last time visited: December 2018 (planned)
Population: 2.9 million (2016)
Language: Armenian
Domain extension: .am
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F (Schuko)
Standardisation: SARM 

Armenia is, together with Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Belarus part of the Eurasian Economic Union (website). The product safety procedure is very similar to that of the European Union (CE marking). Product groups that are regulated are, amongst others, machinery, toys, electromagnetic equipment, low voltage equipment, radio equipment, pressure equipment, toys, medical devices, personal protective equipment, food etc. 

The steps to achieve product safety compliance for Armenia are: 

1. Identify applicable directive(s)
2. Identify the applicable requirements of the Directive(s)
3. Identify an appropriate route to conformity
4. Assess of the product's conformity
5. Compile the technical documentation
6. Make a Declaration and affix the EAC Mark

For more information, see the section Eurasian Economic Union.

ASEAN

Last time visited: September 2014
Population: 600 million (2018)

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a regional intergovernmental organization comprising the following ten Southeast Asian countries: Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, Philippines, Myanmar, Campdia, Laos abd Brunei. The ASEAN promotes intergovernmental cooperation and facilitates economic, political, security, military, educational, and socio-cultural integration amongst its members and other Asian states.

A study conducted by the United Nations and the Australian Aid in 2015, concluded that there is no comprehensive product safety regulatory regime in the ASEAN Member States (AMS). In most countries, no designated agency is responsible for the product safety of consumer goods. Some high-risk products fall within the responsibility of the appicable ministry. 

However, in the 10-year (2016-2025) Strategic Action Plan for Consumer Protection (ASAPCP), it is ASEAN's goal to build confident and informed consumers. One of the foundations for an empowered consumer is thorough access to information. ASEAN has developed a handbook that provides  information on ASEAN member states’ laws and regulations on consumer protection and details of the agencies in AMS responsible for consumer protection. Download the handbook here. 

Austria

Last time visited: August 2017
Population: 8.8 million (2018)
Language: Austrian German
Domain extension: .at
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F (Schuko)
Standardisation: Austrian Standards

Austria is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Belarus 

Last time visited: June 2018
Population: 9.5 million (2016)
Language: Russian and Belarusian
Electricity: 220-240 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F (Schuko)
Testing and certification in Belarus: Bellis
Wikipedia Belarus

Belarus is, together with Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Armenia part of the Eurasian Economic Union (website). The product safety procedure is very similar to that of the European Union (CE marking). Product groups that are regulated are, amongst others, machinery, toys, electromagnetic equipment, low voltage equipment, radio equipment, pressure equipment, toys, medical devices, personal protective equipment, food etc. 

The steps to achieve compliance are: 

1. Identify applicable directive(s)
2. Identify the applicable requirements of the Directive(s)
3. Identify an appropriate route to conformity
4. Assessment of the product's conformity
5. Compile the technical documentation
6. Make a Declaration and affix the EAC Mark

For more information, see the section Eurasian Economic Union.

Belgium 

Last time visited: June 2015
Population: 11.3 million (2016)
Languages: Dutch, French and German
Domain extension: .be
Electricity: 230V; 50 Hz; plug type C/E
Wikipedia Belgium

Belgium is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Brazil

Last time visited: July and August 2003
Population: 209.1 million (2016)
Language: Portuguese
Domain extension: .br
Electricity: 127V/220V; 60 Hz; plug type C/N
Wikipedia Brazil
Certification in Brazil: Inmetro

Inmetro is the main national accreditation body of Brazil. The institute is responsible for the implementation of national policies related to product safety and metrology. Inmetro's task is to draft, adopt and apply technical regulations, related to the protection of consumer health, safety and environment. They are responsible for establishing conformity assessment procedures and carrying out market surveillance. They also accredit each product's certification body (CB).

Many products are regulated in Brazil, such as toys, medical devices, household appliances, automotive parts and tyres. For regulated products, a supplier needs to demonstrate compliance with the Brazilian product safety regulations. 

Products that are manufactured in or being or exported to Brazil need a CB-issued certificate. This certificate states that the product complies with the Brazilian requirements. Depending on the type of product, additional requirements could be required. 

Cambodia

Last time visited: September 2007
Population: 16.2 million (2016)
Language: Khmer
Domain extension: .kh
Wikipedia Cambodia
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type A/C/G 
Standardisation: Institute of Standards of Cambodia

Products that might harm public health or contain certain risks are regulated in Cambodia. These products need to comply with mandatory standards as required by the Institute of Standards of Cambodia (ISC). The ISC drafts and issues product safety regulation. Amongst others, electrical and electronic equipment have been regulated.  

It is not mandatory to mark and label all products that are being imported. However, when the product type is regulated, the product and its label need to be certified and registered before importing into Cambodia.  Depending on the product, different ministries are involved in the certification and regulation.

Cambodia is part of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). ASEAN promotes intergovernmental cooperation and facilitates economic, political, security, military, educational, and sociocultural integration.

China

Last time visited: April 2012
Population: 1.4 billion (2016)
Language: Standard Chinese
Domain extension: .cn
Wikipedia China
Electricity: 220V; 50 Hz; plug type A/C/I 
Standardisation: SAC

In China, for many product types, a governmental approval is required before they can be placed on the Chinese market. Such an approval comes in the form of a certification, license, mark, registration or as an individual approval. If a product has an approval, it will be regularly checked at customs.  

Related to product safety, the most important governmental bodies are the AQSIQ, SAC, and CNCA.

Many products also are regulated by the CCC system. The CCC Mark is a compulsory safety mark for many products imported, sold or used in the Chinese market. The China Quality Certification Centre (CQC) defines the products that need the CCC Mark. When a product falls within the CCC scope, a compulsory certification, issued by a government-appointed certification body, and a mark are required. 

CCC consists of mainly four steps:

• technical documentation
• Shipping of samples
• Type testing
• Factory inspection

Croatia

Last time visited: June 2018
Population: 4.1 million (2016)
Language: Croatian
Domain extension: .hr
Wikipedia Croatia
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F (Schuko)

Croatia is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Czech Republic

Last time visited: September 2018
Population: 10.6 million (2016)
Language: Czech
Domain extension: .cz
Wikipedia Czech Republic
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/E
Standardisation: UNMZ

Czech Republic is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Denmark

Last time visited: April 2011
Population: 5.8 million (2018)
Language: Danish
Domain extension: .dk
Wikipedia Denmark
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/E/F/K

Denmark is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Egypt

Last time visited: April 2018
Population: 95.7 million (2016)
Language: Modern Standard Arabic
Domain extension: .eg
Electricity: 220 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F (Schuko)
Wikipedia Egypt

Products that are being sold in Egypt, need to comply with the requirements of the Egypt Conformity Assessment Programme. Regulated products need to comply with mandatory standards. The Regulated Product list includes (but is not limited to) textiles, food, electrical products, health and beauty products, toys, tableware, lighting and sanitary.

The route to conformity is enforced by the General Organisation for Export and Import Control (GOEIC).

The steps to achieve compliance for registered products are: 

1. Document Evaluation
2. Product registration
3. Inspection and random testing
4. Certificate of Conformity

More info here. 

England

Last time visited: September 2018
Population: 55.6 million (2017)
Language: English
Domain extension: .co.uk
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type G

England is as part of the United Kingdom also part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

On March 29th 2019, the UK will exit the European Union and thus also the EEA. Until that date, all CE rules will continue to apply until the UK has left the Single Market. 

Standards in the UK are developed by BSI. BSI also owns Kitemark, a UK product and service quality certification mark. 

Estonia

Last time visited: -
Population: 1.3 million (2016)
Language: Estonian
Domain extension: .ee
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F (Schuko)
Wikipedia Estonia

Estonia is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Eurasian Economic Union

Last time visited: May 2018
Population: 176 million (2016)
Languages: Russian, Belarusian, Armenian 
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F (Schuko)

Armenia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Belarus are part of the Eurasian Economic Union (website). The product safety procedure is very similar to that of the European Union (CE marking). Product groups that are regulated are, amongst others, machinery, toys, electromagnetic equipment, low voltage equipment, radio equipment, pressure equipment, toys, medical devices, personal protective equipment, food etc. 

The steps to achieve compliance are: 

1. Identify applicable directive(s)
2. Identify the applicable requirements of the Directive(s)
3. Identify an appropriate route to conformity
4. Assessment of the product's conformity
5. Compile the technical documentation
6. Make a Declaration and affix the EAC Mark

Other remarks:

• National differences may exist between the member states of the Eurasian Economic Union.
• From the 1st of July 2018, the Energy Efficiency Directive came into force.
• From 2021 Medical Devices will be regulated similarly to how they are regulated in the European Union.

European Economic Area

Last time visited: July 2018
Population: 513.7 million (2015)
Domain extension: .eu
Languages EU: Bulgarian, Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Estonian, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Irish, Italian, Latvian, Lithuanian, Maltese, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Slovak, Slovenian, Spanish, Swedish
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/E/F/G/J/K/L

Product safety within the EEA is arranged by CE marking. CE marking is mandatory for certain product groups sold within the EEA (the 28 member states of the EU plus EFTA countries Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein) and Turkey and Switzerland. Product groups that are regulated are, amongst others, machinery, toys, electromagnetic equipment, low voltage equipment, radio equipment, pressure equipment, toys, medical devices, personal protective equipment etc. If a product does not fall within the scope of a CE directive, then the General Product Safety Directive applies (download the general product safety directive pdf here). 

The steps to achieve compliance are: 

1. Identify applicable directive(s) and product safety standards
2. Identify the applicable requirements of the directive(s)
3. Identify an appropriate route to conformity
4. Assess of the product's conformity
5. Compile the technical documentation
6. Make a Declaration and affix the CE Mark

When you want to sell an existing product on the European market, you should:

1. Verify that your product and the technical documentation (such as test reports) comply with the requirements. 
2. If necessary, conduct/complete the applicable conformity assessment procedure.
3. Compile the technical file, draw up the Declaration of Conformity and affix the EAC mark.

Some differences with the US:

• Within the EU, product safety standards are voluntary and are a way to meet the requirements of the Directives. In the US standards are mandatory. 
• In the EU, product liability has been defined by the Directive on Liability for Defective Products. The United States has not established common law and has set no product liability regulation. All 50 states have individual standards that define product liability. 

Finland

Last time visited: November 2018
Population: 5.5 million (2016)
Languages: Finnish, Swedish, Sami
Domain extension: .fi
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F (Schuko)
Wikipedia Finland

I visited Finland in October/November 2018 for the STVY conference, where I had to speak. Topic: How Can You Legally Publish Your User Instructions Online.

Finland is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

France

Last time visited: July 2014
Population: 67.2 million (2017)
Language: French
Domain extension: .fr
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/E 
Wikipedia France

France is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area. 

Germany

Last time visited: Currently residing
Population: 82.7 million (2016)
Language: German
Domain extension: .de
Electricity: 220-240 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F (Schuko)
Wikipedia Germany

Germany is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Other remarks:

• Although not mandatory, in Germany, a TüV testing mark is considered to be a trustworthy mark.
• Also, the GS mark (Geprüfte Sicherheit) is a common and voluntary certification mark for technical equipment.
• Besides CE Directives, there are non-CE Directives such as the REACH, packaging and WEEE Directive. In Germany, WEEE equipment should be registered (for example at EAR) and packaging should be registered via for example Grüner Punkt.

Greece

Last time visited: December 2017
Population: 10.8 million (2017)
Language: Greek
Domain extension: .gr
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F (Schuko)
Wikipedia Greece

Greece is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Hungary

Last time visited: July 2003
Population: 9.8 million (2017)
Language: Hungarian
Domain extension: .hu
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F (Schuko)
Wikipedia Hungary

Hungary is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Italy

Last time visited: July 2017
Population: 60.6 million (2017)
Language: Italian
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F/L
Wikipedia Italy

Italy is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Ireland

Last time visited: February 2013
Population: 6.6 million (2016)
Language: Irish, English, Ulster Scots
Domain extension: .ie
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type G
Wikipedia Ireland

Ireland is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking. For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Israel & the Palestinian Territories

Last time visited: May 2016
Population: 8.9 million (2018)
Language: Hebrew, Arabic (recognized)
Domain extension: .il
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/H
Wikipedia Israel

In Israel, standards for regulated products are developed by the Standards Institution of Israel (SII). This national standards body is responsible for the testing of domestic and imported products for compliance according to the Israeli standards.

Israel is a member of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development.

Israel has free trade agreements with the United States, the European Union and the European Free Trade Association.

Japan

Last time visited: October 2015
Population: 126.7 million (2017)
Language: Japanese
Domain extension: .jp
Electricity: 100 V; 50 Hz; plug type A/B
Wikipedia Japan

Products that are sold in Japan fall into two categories:

• Products to which technical regulations/mandatory standards apply, and
• Products to which non-mandatory voluntary standards apply

The Japan Industrial Standards Committee (JISC) plays a central role in the standarisation process.

Jordan

Last time visited: May 2016
Population: 10.2 million (2018)
Language: Arabic
Domain extension: .jo
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/D/F/G/J
Wikipedia Jordan

Goods, products, and services that are sold in Jordan are subject to product safety regulation. The issuing, approving, reviewing and monitoring the implementation of standards and regulations is the responsibility of The Jordan Standards and Metrology Organization (JSMO). They also grant conformity certificates (including the Quality Mark). 

Other important facts:

• Jordan is a member of the Greater Arab Free Trade Area
• Jordan signed an association agreement with the European Union
• Jordan has signed free trade agreements with the United States, European Free Trade Association, and Singapore
• Jordan is also a member of the World Trade Organization.

Kazakhstan

Last time visited: January 2019 (planned)
Population: 18 million (2016)
Language: Kazakh and Russian
Domain extension: .kz
Electricity: 220 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F (Schuko)
Wikipedia Kazakhstan
Partner: 

Kazakhstan is, together with Russia, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan and Belarus part of the Eurasian Economic Union (website). The product safety procedure is very similar to that of the European Union (CE marking). Product groups that are regulated are, amongst others, machinery, toys, electromagnetic equipment, low voltage equipment, radio equipment, pressure equipment, toys, medical devices, personal protective equipment, food etc. 

The steps to achieve product safety compliance for Armenia are: 

1. Identify applicable directive(s)
2. Identify the applicable requirements of the Directive(s)
3. Identify an appropriate route to conformity
4. Assessment of the product's conformity
5. Compile the technical documentation
6. Make a Declaration and affix the EAC Mark

For more information, see the section Eurasian Economic Union.

Kyrgyzstan

Last time visited: January 2019 (planned)
Population: 6 million (2016)
Language: Kyrgyz and Russian
Domain extension: .kg
Electricity: 220 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F (Schuko)
Wikipedia Kyrgyzstan
Partner:

Kyrgyzstan is, together with Armenia, Russia, Kazakhstan and Belarus part of the Eurasian Economic Union (website). The product safety procedure is very similar to that of the European Union (CE marking). Product groups that are regulated are, amongst others, machinery, toys, electromagnetic equipment, low voltage equipment, radio equipment, pressure equipment, toys, medical devices, personal protective equipment, food etc. 

The steps to achieve product safety compliance for Armenia are: 

1. Identify applicable directive(s)
2. Identify the applicable requirements of the Directive(s)
3. Identify an appropriate route to conformity
4. Assessment of the product's conformity
5. Compile the technical documentation
6. Make a Declaration and affix the EAC Mark

For more information, see the section Eurasian Economic Union.

Latvia

Last time visited: January 2004
Population: 1.9 million (2016)
Language: Latvian
Domain extension: .lv
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F (Schuko)
Wikipedia Latvia
Partner:

Latvia is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Lithuania

Last time visited: -
Population: 2.8 million (2016)
Language: Lithuanian
Domain extension: .lt
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F (Schuko)
Wikipedia Lithuania
Partner:

Lithuania is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Luxembourg

Last time visited: June 2012
Population: 602,000 (2018)
Language: Luxembourgish, French, German
Domain extension: .lu
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F (Schuko)
Wikipedia Luxembourg
Partner:

Luxembourg is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Mauritius

Last time visited: November 2011
Population: 1.26 million (2016)
Language: English and French
Domain extension: .mu
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/G
Wikipedia Mauritius

Product safety standards in Mauritius are developed by the Mauritius Standards Bureau (MSB). Accredation to certification bodies is provided by the Mauritius Accredititation Service (MAURITAS). Accreditation is voluntary in Mauritius as it is very open to international compliance. The island collaborates with economies such as the European Union, Australia and the United States, and with bodies such as COMESA, SADC, UN and OECD. 

Imported regulated products shall be accompanied by a Certificate of Conformity. This document must be submitted to the MSB for certification. When there is no Certificate a company can obtain a test report for the MSB. After approval the products can be sold. 

Monaco

Last time visited: June 2000
Population: 38,400 (2015)
Language: French
Domain extension: .mc
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/E/F
Wikipedia Monaco

Monaco is not in the European Union, nor part of the EEA. However, Monaco has arrangements with big brother France and works closely with the EU to simplify the relations. For instance, Monaco is a member of the EU customs area through an agreement with France, and is administered as part of France.

The economy is open to trade and Monaco's customs regulations conform to French and EU policies. 

Myanmar

Last time visited: September 2013
Population: 53.6 million (2017)
Language: Burmese
Domain extension: .mm
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type A/C/D/G/I
Wikipedia Myanmar

Myanmar has not passed any specific product safety legislation dealing with product liability. However, some laws regulate certain aspects of product liability of which the Consumer Protection Law (2014) is the most significant one. 

The Consumer Protection Law aims on securing safe products by imposing prison sentences for those selling unsafe and low quality goods. 

Myanmar seems to lack a general mandatory recall power. 

Myanmar is part of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).  See ASEAN section for more information.

Netherlands

Last time visited: Currently residing
Population: 17.2 million (2018)
Language: Dutch
Domain extension: .nl
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F (Schuko)
Wikipedia Netherlands

The Netherlands is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking. 

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Standards in the Netherlands are developed by the NEN. The NEN developed their own standard for User Instructions: the NEN5509. This standard has integrated the requirements of the Machinery Directive, which is missing in the current international EN IEC 82079-1 standard on User Instructions.

Northern Ireland

Last time visited: February 2013
Population: 1.87 million (2017)
Language: English
Domain extension: .co.uk
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type G
Wikipedia Northern Ireland

Northern-Ireland is as part of the United Kingdom also part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

On March 29th 2019, the UK will exit the European Union and thus also the EEA. Until that date, all CE rules will continue to apply until the UK has left the Single Market. 

North Korea

Last time visited: April 2012
Population: 25.4 million (2016)
Language: Korean
Domain extension: .kp
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C
Wikipedia North-Korea

No information available

Norway

Last time visited: -
Population: 5.3 million (2018)
Language: Norwegian and Sami
Domain extension: .no
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F
Wikipedia Norway

Norway is not a member of the European Union. However, the country is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking. CE marking is mandatory for certain product groups sold within the EEA 

The steps to achieve compliance for the Norwegian market are: 

1. Identify applicable directive(s)
2. Identify the applicable requirements of the Directive(s)
3. Identify an appropriate route to conformity
4. Assessment of the product's conformity
5. Compile the technical documentation
6. Make a Declaration and affix the CE Mark

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Philippines

Last time visited: September 2009
Population: 106.2 million (2018)
Language: Filipino and English
Domain extension: .ph
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type A/B/C
Wikipedia Philippines

Product safety in the Philippines is regulated by the Standards Law and the Consumer Act of the Philippines. The Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS), develops, implements and promotes standarisation activities as mandated by Philippines' law. 

The Consumer Act provides that the development and provision of quality and safety standards for consumer products shall be implemented by the Department of Health, Department of Agriculture and the Department of Trade and Industry. Through the Standards Law the BPS formulates Philippine National Standards or adopts relevant international in order to ensure the production of quality products.

Certain products, such as building and construction, electrical and electronics and chemical and consumer products, are subject to product certification. These products need to be tested prior to distribution and sale in the Philippines.  

Poland

Last time visited: May 2010
Population: 38.4 million (2017)
Language: Polish
Domain extension: .pl
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/E
Wikipedia Poland

Poland is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Portugal

Last time visited: September 2018
Population: 10.3 million (2017)
Language: Portuguese
Domain extension: .pt
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F
Wikipedia Portugal

Portugal is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking.

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Romania

Last time visited: January 2010
Population: 19.6 million (2017)
Language: Romanian
Domain extension: .ro
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F
Wikipedia Romania

Romania is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking. 

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Russia

Last time visited: October 2018 
Population: 144.5 million (2018)
Language: Russian
Domain extension: .ru
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F
Wikipedia Russia

Russia is, together with Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Belarus part of the Eurasian Economic Union (website). The product safety procedure of thier EAC marking is very similar to that of the European Union (CE marking). Product groups that are regulated are, amongst others, machinery, toys, electromagnetic equipment, low voltage equipment, radio equipment, pressure equipment, toys, medical devices and personal protective equipment. Also clothing and food falls under EAC Marking

The steps to achieve product safety compliance for the Russian market are: 

1. Identify applicable directive(s)
2. Identify the applicable requirements of the Directive(s)
3. Identify an appropriate route to conformity
4. Assess the product's conformity
5. Compile the technical documentation
6. Make a Declaration and affix the EAC Mark

For more information, see the section Eurasian Economic Union.

Scotland

Last time visited: May 2015
Population: 5.4 million (2017)
Language: English
Domain extension: .co.uk
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type G
Wikipedia Scotland

Scotland is as part of the United Kingdom also part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking. 

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

On March 29th 2019, the UK will exit the European Union and thus also the EEA. Until that date, all CE rules will continue to apply until the UK has left the Single Market. 

Slovakia

Last time visited: July 2002
Population: 5.4 million (2016)
Language: Slovak
Domain extension: .sk
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/E
Wikipedia Slovakia

Slovakia is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking. 

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Slovenia

Last time visited: August 2017
Population: 2.1 million (2017)
Language: Slovene
Domain extension: .si
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F
Wikipedia Slovenia

Slovenia is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking. 

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Spain

Last time visited: June 2012
Population: 46.7 million (2018)
Language: Spanish
Domain extension: .es
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F
Wikipedia Spain

Spain is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking. 

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Sweden

Last time visited: -
Population: 10.2 million (2018)
Language: Swedish
Domain extension: .se
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F
Wikipedia Sweden

Sweden is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking. 

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

Switzerland

Last time visited: July 2016
Population: 8.4 million (2018)
Language: German, French, Italian, Romansh
Domain extension: .ch
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/J
Wikipedia Switzerland

Switzerland is not part of the European Union, nor of the European Economic Area (EEA). Switzerland has its own requirements related to product safety. The manufacturer, importer or distributor placing the product on the Swiss market is responsible for compliance with these requirements. The requirements are laid down in the Federal Act on Product Safety and the Ordinance on the Marketing of Products Manufactured According to Foreign Requirements.

The Federal Act on Product Safety aligned Switzerland’s product safety regulation with the Product Safety Directive (2001/95/EEC) of the European Union. Also, Switzerland has adopted most of the harmonised standards issued by European standardisation institutes. Also, product liability caused by unsafe or defective products is governed by the Product Liability Act, which is almost identical to the European Product Liability Directive (85/374/EEC).

The European Union and Switzerland have signed a Mutual Recognition Agreement (download here), meaning that when products that are covered by the agreement comply with European product safety requirements, they may be exported to Switzerland and vice versa. 

Thailand

Last time visited: September 2014
Population: 69.9 million (2016)
Language: Thai
Domain extension: .th
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type A/B/C/O
Wikipedia Thailand

Thailand is part of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). ASEAN promotes intergovernmental cooperation and facilitates economic, political, security, military, educational, and socio-cultural integration. For more information, see the section ASEAN. 

Many products, such as mains operated home electronics, electrical household appliances, skin treatment equipment and electrical toys are subject to product safety regulation in Thailand. Certification and labelling needs to be conducted by the Thai Industrial Standards Insitute (TISI). The products need to be tested on compliance with the Thai Industrial Standards (TIS) by a TISI approved lab. 

Factory inspection and annual market sampling are mandatory. For radio equipment, approval by the NBTC is required. 

Turkey 

Last time visited: June 2015
Population: 80.8 million (2017)
Language: Turkish
Domain extension: .tr
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type C/F
Wikipedia Turkey

Since 2004, Turkey has implemented most of the European CE marking, covering an estimated 70% of all products imported into Turkey. 

When selling products on the Turkish internal market, companies must submit a conformity certificate from a notified body or a declaration of conformity, which declares compliance with the relevant product safety legislation.

If there is no applicable directive for a particular product, then the products should meet the product safety standards from the Turkish Standards Institute (TSE). 

A proposed law regarding product safety (the "Proposed Law") is currently on the agenda of the Turkish Grand National Assembly. The Proposed Law represents further harmonisation steps with the European Union legislation.

In 2018, the Turkish Ministry of Economy presented the draft law on Product Safety. The law aims on updating and further harmonising Turkish product safety rules with those of the EU. 

As a product liability law was still lacking, the new law will also hold manufacturers, importers or distributors liable for placing defective products on the market. Any product introduced to the Turkish market must be safe, which means they should be compliant with the technical specifications set out in the relevant product safety regulation.

Uganda

Last time visited: May 2017
Population: 41.5 million (2016)
Language: English and Swahili
Domain extension: .ug
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type G
Wikipedia Uganda

In Uganda, the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) is responsible for developing and promoting standardisation and quality assurance. They conduct laboratory testing and metrology to promote competitiveness, safety and fair trade. The UNBS actively promotes exports and ensures quality imports. The UNBS is a member of ISO. Regionally, the UNBS actively develops and elaborates regional standards at the East African Community (EAC) and Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA). 

United States

Last time visited: April 2016
Population: 325.7 million (2016)
Language: English
Domain extension: .us
Electricity: 120 V; 60 Hz; plug type A/B
Wikipedia United States

In the United States, product safety is regulated by various federal agencies. The appropriate federal agency creates the regulations once the Congress has enacted a product safety law, amongst others by indicating mandatory and voluntary standards. Two important laws are the Consumer Product Safety Act (CPSA) and the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA).

Some important federal agencies are the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The CPSC regulates most types of consumer products and the FCC most electronics.

In the EU, the standards are voluntary and are a way to comply with the requirements of the directives, but in the U.S. standards are often mandatory. 

When there are no mandatory standards, it is the responsibility of the importer to conduct an assessment and make sure that the products are safe. Standards are developed by UL, SGS, ASTM and ANSI. 

Although standards are often not mandatory, Amazon and also U.S. customs may be required to provide documents proving compliance with standards. 

Vatican City

Last time visited: July 2017
Population: 1000 (2017)
Language: Italian and Latin
Domain extension: .va
Electricity: 120 V; 60 Hz; plug type C/F/L
Wikipedia Vatican City

Vatican City is not able to join the EU because it does not meet the EU's Copenhagen Criteria. However, because of its geography (within an EU state Capital), there is a relationship with the EU, described as the Holy See - European Union relations. Its economy is of a unique non-commercial nature. It is generally agreed that products bought by its residents are bought in the EU or enter the EU first, and therefore must meet European legislation.

Wales

Last time visited: September 2018
Population: 55.6 million (2017)
Language: English, Welsh
Domain extension: .co.uk
Electricity: 230 V; 50 Hz; plug type G

Wales is as part of the United Kingdom also part of the European Economic Area (EEA). Product safety within the EEA is regulated by CE marking. 

For more information, see the section European Economic Area.

On March 29th 2019, the UK will exit the European Union and thus also the EEA. Until that date, all CE rules will continue to apply until the UK has left the Single Market.