Filenews 21 February 2025 - by Charalambos Zakos
In Cyprus and all European countries it is forbidden to import, sell and use any device that does not bear the CE marking. This was reported by the Department of Customs and Excise to "F" after a relevant question.
The tragedy in Limassol has reopened the big chapter for the import of products into Cyprus, which are often not only defective or unsuitable, but their use can endanger human lives. "F" investigated the issue, asking for answers regarding the import of electrical appliances in Cyprus, as well as ways to protect consumers.
They may not be imported
"F" addressed the Department of Customs and Excise and was informed that it is forbidden to import into Cyprus any device that does not bear the CE marking. In fact, as the Department of Customs clarifies, this ban does not apply only to importers, but to everyone. That is, even for citizens who proceed with orders from foreign platforms.
As the spokesman of the Department of Customs, George Constantinou, clarified to "F", if such a product is detected during the checks carried out, it is confiscated. Asked about this, Constantinou said that in the past the Department of Customs and Excise has confiscated products imported by an importer that did not meet European standards, however, as he stressed, the Department of Customs and Excise cannot control every merchandise that arrives on the island and that is why such products are found in Cyprus.
How can marking be checked?
"F" contacted the legal counsel of the Cyprus Consumers Association, Virginia Christou, who gave her own advice to citizens.
In particular, as Christou mentioned, the legislation provides that the CE marking on products must be indelible. He explained that if consumers notice that a device bears the CE marking only with a sticker or with a coated inscription that can be erased or faded, then they should avoid buying or using it and inform the competent authorities.
As she said, the competent authority for electrical appliances is the Department of Electrical and Mechanical Services, so consumers can submit their complaints there, so that the necessary checks can be made.
What is CE marking
According to the European Union, the CE marking indicates that a product has been tested by the manufacturer and is considered to meet European standards in terms of safety and protection of health and the environment. It is mandatory for products manufactured anywhere in the world and then placed on the EU market.
When is CE marking mandatory?
The CE marking is mandatory only for products for which EU specifications apply and the CE mark is required.
Some products are subject to several EU requirements at the same time. Before affixing the CE mark to products, there must be an attestation that they meet all relevant requirements. It is forbidden to affix the CE mark to products for which EU standards do not apply or the affixing of the mark is not required.
How is the CE mark obtained?
The manufacturers of the product have only the obligation to declare the conformity of the product with all requirements. There is no need for permission to affix the CE mark to the product, however, manufacturers must beforehand:
– satisfy themselves (and take responsibility for) their compliance with all relevant requirements applicable in the EU, or
– request its assessment by a notified body and draw up technical documentation documenting compliance
– draw up and sign an EU declaration of conformity.
Once the product bears the CE marking, manufacturers must – at the request of the competent national authority – provide all the information and supporting documents relating to this marking.
How is the CE mark affixed?
According to the EU website, the CE mark must be visible, legible and indelible (not erased or faded over time).
It must consist of the initials 'CE'. Both letters must have the same vertical dimension and not be smaller than 5 mm (unless otherwise specified in the EU requirements for the specific product).
If a manufacturer wishes to reduce or enlarge the CE mark on their product, they should observe the proportions of the two letters. As long as the initials remain clearly visible, the CE mark can take different forms (e.g. coloured, solid or outlined).
If the CE mark cannot be affixed to the product itself, they can affix it to its packaging, if any, or to any of the accompanying documents. If the product is subject to various EU directives/regulations making CE marking mandatory, the accompanying documents must state that the product complies with all applicable EU directives/regulations.
