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Germany Import Turnover Tax
Goods imported from non-EU states are subject to an import turnover tax (Einfuhrumsatzsteuer). The import turnover tax rate equals the VAT (value-added tax) rates of 19 percent levied on domestic products (or 7 percent for some product categories), and has to be paid to the customs authority. The assessment base for the import turnover tax is the so-called customs value.
The import turnover tax on goods imported from non-EU states can be deducted as a so-called input tax (Vorsteuer). As a prerequisite, the company must have the necessary import documents with customs proof of payment (import declaration). It is important to collect and present all invoices as originals in order to deduct any VAT charges from one's own tax liability or to get reimbursed by the German Ministry of Finance, if eligible.
EU Regulations
U.S. exports to the European Union enjoy an average tariff of just three percent. All the same, U.S. exporters should consult "The Integrated Tariff of the Community", referred to as TARIC (Tarif Intégré de la Communauté), to identify the various rules which apply to specific products being imported into the customs territory of the EU. To determine if a license is required for a particular product, check the TARIC. The TARIC can be searched by country of origin, Harmonized System (HS) Code, and product description on the interactive website of the Directorate-General for Taxation and the Customs Union. The online TARIC is updated daily.
Key Link: http://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/customs/customs_duties/tariff_aspects/customs_tariff/index_en.htm
Germany's regulations and bureaucratic procedures can be a difficult hurdle for companies wishing to enter the market and require close attention by U.S. exporters. Complex safety standards, not normally discriminatory but sometimes zealously applied, complicate access to the market for many U.S. products. U.S. suppliers are well advised to do their homework thoroughly and make sure they know precisely which standards apply to their product and that they obtain timely testing and certification.
For information on existing trade barriers, please see the National Trade Estimate Report on Foreign Trade Barriers, published by USTR and available through the following website:
Information on agricultural trade barriers can be found at the following website:
To report existing or new trade barriers and get assistance in removing them, contact either the Office of Trade Agreements Negotiations and Compliance at http://tcc.export.gov/ or the U.S. Mission to the European Union at http://export.gov/europeanunion/
The TARIC (Tarif Intégré de la Communauté), described above, is available to help determine if a license is required for a particular product. Moreover, the European Commission maintains an export helpdesk with information on import restrictions of various products. http://www.exporthelp.europa.eu/thdapp/display.htm?page=rt%2Frt_ImportRestrictions.html&docType=main&languageId=en
Many EU member states maintain their own list of goods subject to import licensing.
For example, Germany's "Import List" (Einfuhrliste) includes goods for which licenses are required, their code numbers, any applicable restrictions, and the agency that will issue the relevant license. The Import List also indicates whether the license is required under German or EU law.
Import Documentation
The Single Administrative Document
The official model for written declarations to customs is the Single Administrative Document (SAD). The SAD describes goods and their movement around the world and is essential for trade outside the EU, or of non-EU goods. Goods brought into the EU customs territory are, from the time of their entry, subject to customs supervision until customs formalities are completed. Goods are covered by a Summary Declaration which is filed once the items have been presented to customs officials. The customs authorities may, however, allow a period for filing the Declaration which cannot be extended beyond the first working day following the day on which the goods are presented to customs.
The Summary Declaration is filed by:
The Summary Declaration can be made on a form provided by the customs authorities. However, customs authorities may also allow the use of any commercial or official document that contains the specific information required to identify the goods. The SAD serves as the EU importer's declaration. It encompasses both customs duties and VAT and is valid in all EU member states. The declaration is made by whoever is clearing the goods, normally the importer of record or his/her agent.
European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries including Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein also use the SAD. Information on import/export forms is contained in Council Regulation (EEC) No. 2454/93, which lays down provisions for the implementation of the Community Customs Code (Articles 205 through 221). Articles 222 through 224 provide for computerized customs declarations and Articles 225 through 229 provide for oral declarations.
More information on the SAD can be found at:
Regulation (EC) No 450/2008 laying down the Community Customs Code (so-called the "Modernized Customs Code") aimed at the adaptation of customs legislation and at introducing the electronic environment for customs and trade. This Regulation entered into force on June 24, 2008 and was due to be applicable once its implementing provisions were in force by June 2013. However, the Modernized Customs Code was recast as a Union Customs Code (UCC) before it became applicable. The Union Customs Code (UCC) Regulation entered into force in October 2013 and repealed the MCC Regulation. Its substantive provisions went into effect on May 1st 2016.
Imported goods must be accompanied by a customs declaration, which has to be submitted in writing, and an invoice in duplicate. Normally the German importer files this declaration. The commercial invoice must show the country of purchase and the country of origin of the goods. The invoice should contain:
In addition, a certificate of origin may be required in some cases.
Import duties and taxes are subject to change and companies are well advised to verify the correct tariff level shortly before carrying out any export transaction. For further information, including current customs tariffs, please visit:
Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI)
Since July 1, 2009, all companies established outside of the EU are required to have an EORI number if they wish to lodge a customs declaration or an Entry/Exit Summary declaration. All U.S. companies should use this number for their customs clearances. An EORI number must be formally requested from the customs of the specific member state to which the company exports. Member state custom authorities may request additional documents to be submitted alongside a formal request for an EORI number. Once a company has received an EORI number, it can use it for exports to any of the 28 EU member states. There is no single format for the EORI number. Once an operator holds an EORI number s/he can request the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO: see below under "MRA") status, which can give quicker access to certain simplified customs procedures.
More information about the EORI number can be found at http://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/dds2/eos/eori_home.jsp?Lang=en
U.S. - EU Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA)
Since 1997, the U.S. and the EU have had an agreement on customs cooperation and mutual assistance in customs matters. For additional information, please see
In 2012 the United States and the EU signed a new Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) aimed at matching procedures to associate one another's customs identification numbers. The MCC introduced the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program (known as the "security amendment"). This is similar to the United States' voluntary Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) program in which participants receive certification as a "trusted" trader. AEO certification issued by a national customs authority and is recognized by all member state's customs agencies. As of April 17, 2017 an AEO can consist of two different types of authorization: "customs simplification" or "security and safety." The former allows for an AEO to benefit from simplification related to customs legislation, while the latter allows for facilitation through security and safety procedures. Shipping to a trader with AEO status could facilitate an exporter's trade as its benefits include expedited processing of shipments, reduced theft/losses, reduced data requirements, lower inspection costs, and enhanced loyalty and recognition. Under the revised Union Customs Code, in order for an operator to make use of certain customs simplifications, the authorization of AEO becomes mandatory.
The United States and the EU recognize each other's security certified operators and will take the respective membership status of certified trusted traders favorably into account to the extent possible. The favorable treatment provided by mutual recognition will result in lower costs, simplified procedures and greater predictability for transatlantic business activities. The newly signed arrangement officially recognizes the compatibility of AEO and C-TPAT programs, thereby facilitating faster and more secure trade between U.S. and EU operators. The agreement is being implemented in two phases. The first commenced in July 2012 with the U.S. customs authorities placing shipments coming from EU AEO members into a lower risk category. The second phase took place in early 2013, with the EU re-classifying shipments coming from C-TPAT members into a lower risk category. The U.S. customs identification numbers (MID) are therefore recognized by customs authorities in the EU, as per Implementing Regulation 58/2013 (which amends EU Regulation 2454/93 cited above): http://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/resources/documents/customs/procedural_aspects/general/implementing_regulation_58_2013_en.pdf
Additional information on the MRA can be found at:
Revised AEO guidelines (published March 2016): http://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/resources/documents/customs/policy_issues/customs_security/aeo_guidelines_en.pdf
The EU Battery Directive adopted in 2006 (Directive 2006/66) applies to all batteries and accumulators placed on the EU market. This includes automotive, industrial and portable batteries. The Directive seeks to protect the environment by restricting the sale of batteries and accumulators that contain mercury or cadmium (with an exemption for emergency and alarm systems, medical equipment and cordless power tools) and by promoting a high level of collection and recycling. It places the responsibility on producers to finance the costs associated with the collection, treatment, and recycling of used batteries and accumulators. The Directive also includes provisions on the labeling of batteries and their removability from equipment. The European Commission publishes a FAQ document – last updated in May 2014 - to assist interested parties in interpreting its provisions. For more information, see our market research report: http://www.export.gov/europeanunion/marketresearch/index.asp
Registration, Evaluation and Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH)
REACH applies to all chemicals manufactured or imported into the EU in quantities exceeding one metric ton. The regulation entered into force in 2007 (Regulation 1907/2006) and touches virtually every industrial sector, from automobiles to textiles. REACH imposes a registration obligation on all entities affected by the one metric ton criteria by May 31, 2018. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is the agency responsible for receiving and ensuring the completeness of such registrations. U.S. companies without a presence in Europe need to rely on an EU-based partner, typically either an importer or a specialized 'Only Representative'.
In addition to the registration requirement, U.S. exporters should carefully review the REACH 'Candidate List' of Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs) and the 'Authorization List'. Under certain conditions, substances on the Candidate List are subject to communication requirements prior to their export to the EU. Companies seeking to export chemicals on the 'Authorization List' will require an authorization. The Candidate List can be found at: http://echa.europa.eu/web/guest/candidate-list-table. The Authorization List is available at http://echa.europa.eu/addressing-chemicals-of-concern/authorisation/recommendation-for-inclusion-in-the-authorisation-list/authorisation-list
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive
EU rules on WEEE, while not requiring specific customs or import paperwork, may entail a financial obligation for U.S. exporters. The Directive requires U.S. exporters to register relevant products with a national WEEE authority or arrange for this to be done by a local partner. The WEEE Directive was revised on July 4, 2012 and the scope of products covered was expanded to include all electrical and electronic equipment. This revised scope will apply from August 14, 2018 with a phase-in period that has already begun. U.S. exporters seeking more information on the WEEE Directive should visit:
Restriction on Hazardous Substances RoHS
The ROHS Directive imposes restrictions on the use of certain chemicals in electrical and electronic equipment. It does not require specific customs or import paperwork however, manufacturers must self-certify that their products are compliant and affix a "CE" market. The 2011 revisions to the ROHS Directive significantly expanded the scope of covered products. Generally, U.S. exporters have until July 22, 2019 to bring products into compliance that were once outside the scope. U.S. exporters seeking more information on the RoHS Directive should visit: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/waste/rohs_eee/index_en.htm
Cosmetics Regulation
The EU legislation harmonizing the regulation of cosmetic products has applied since July 11, 2013. The most controversial element of the regulation was the introduction of an EU-wide system for the notification of cosmetic products to the European Commission prior to their placement on the EU market. Only an EU-established entity may submit such a notification. Therefore U.S. exporters must either retain a "Responsible Person" to act on their behalf, rely on their exporter, or establish a presence in the EU.
For more general information, see: http://apps.export.gov/article?id=The-EU-Cosmetics-Regulation
Agricultural Documentation
Phytosanitary Certificates: Phytosanitary certificates are required for most fresh fruits, vegetables, and other plant materials.
Sanitary Certificates: For commodities composed of animal products or by-products, EU countries require that shipments be accompanied by a certificate issued by the competent authority of the exporting country. This applies regardless of whether the product is for human consumption, for pharmaceutical use, or strictly for non-human use (e.g., veterinary biologicals, animal feeds, fertilizers, research). The vast majority of these certificates are uniform throughout the EU but the harmonization process is still ongoing. Most recently, certificates for a series of highly processed products including chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid, hydrolyzed cartilage products, chitosan, glucosamine, rennet, isinglass and amino acids are being harmonized. Until harmonization is finalized, certain member state import requirements continue to apply. In addition to the legally required EU health certificates, a number of other certificates are used in international trade. These certificates, which may also be harmonized in EU legislation, certify origin for customs purposes and certain quality attributes. Up-to-date information on harmonized import requirements can be found at the following website:
Sanitary Certificates (Fisheries)
In April 2006, the European Union declared the U.S. seafood inspection system as equivalent to the European one. Consequently, a specific public health certificate must accompany U.S. seafood shipments. The U.S. fishery product sanitary certificate is a combination of Commission Decision 2006/199/EC for the public health attestation and of Regulation 1012/2012 for the general template and animal health attestation. Unlike for fishery products, the U.S. shellfish sanitation system is not equivalent to that of the EU's. The EU and the U.S. are currently negotiating a veterinary equivalency agreement on shellfish. In the meantime, the EU still has a ban in place (since July 1, 2010), that prohibits the import of U.S. bivalve mollusks, in whatever form, into EU territory. This ban does not apply to wild roe-off scallops.
Since June 2009, the only U.S. competent authority for issuing sanitary certificates for fishery and aquaculture products is the U.S. Department of Commerce, National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA-NMFS).
In addition to sanitary certificates, all third countries wishing to export fishery products to the EU are requested to provide a catch certificate. This catch certificate certifies that the products in question have been caught legally.
For detailed information on import documentation for seafood, please contact the NOAA Fisheries office at the U.S. Mission to the EU (email@example.com) or visit the following NOAA dedicated web site:
The U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is responsible for implementing and enforcing the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), which regulate the export and re-export of some commercial items, including "production" and "development" technology.
The items that BIS regulates are often referred to as "dual use" since they have both commercial and military applications. Further information on export controls is available at: http://www.bis.doc.gov/licensing/exportingbasics.htm
BIS has developed a list of "red flags," or warning signs, intended to discover possible violations of the EAR. These are posted at:
Also, BIS has "Know Your Customer" guidance at: https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/compliance-a-training/export-management-a-compliance/23-compliance-a-training/47-know-your-customer-guidance
If there is reason to believe a violation is taking place or has occurred, report it to the Department of Commerce by calling the 24-hour hotline at +1(800) 424-2980, or via the confidential lead page at: https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php?option=com_rsform&formId=14
The EAR does not control all goods, services, and technologies. Other U.S. government agencies regulate more specialized exports. For example, the U.S. Department of State has authority over defense articles and services. A list of other agencies involved in export control can be found on the BIS web http://www.bis.doc.gov.
It is important to note that in August 2009, the President directed a broad-based interagency review of the U.S. export control system, with the goal of strengthening national security and the competitiveness of key U.S. manufacturing and technology sectors by focusing on current threats, as well as adapting to the changing economic and technological landscape. As a result, the Administration launched the Export Control Reform Initiative (ECR Initiative) which is designed to enhance U.S. national security and strengthen the United States' ability to counter threats such as the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
The Administration is implementing the reform in three phases. Phases I and II reconcile various definitions, regulations, and policies for export controls, all the while building toward Phase III, which will create a single control list, single licensing agency, unified information technology system, and enforcement coordination center.
For additional information on ECR see: http://export.gov/ecr/index.asp
BIS provides a variety of training sessions to U.S. exporters throughout the year. These sessions range from one to two day seminars and focus on the basics of exporting as well as more advanced topics. A list of upcoming seminars can be found at: https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/compliance-a-training/current-seminar-schedule
For further details about the Bureau of Industry and Security and its programs, please visit the BIS website at: http://www.bis.doc.gov/
For temporary entry it is usually advisable to purchase an ATA Carnet, which allows for the temporary, duty-free entry of goods into over 50 countries, and is issued by the United States Council for International Business by appointment of the U.S. Customs Service: www.uscib.org.
There is a broad array of EU legislation pertaining to the marking, labeling and packaging of products, with neither an "umbrella" law covering all goods nor any central directory containing information on marking, labeling and packaging requirements. This overview is meant to provide the reader with a general introduction to the multitude of marking, labeling and packaging requirements or marketing tools to be found in the EU.
The first step in investigating the marking, labeling and packaging legislation that might apply to a product entering the EU is to draw a distinction between what is mandatory and what is voluntary. Decisions related to mandatory marking, labeling and/or packaging requirements may sometimes be left to individual member states. Furthermore, voluntary marks and/or labels are used as marketing tools in some EU member states. This report is focused primarily on the mandatory marks and labels seen most often on consumer products and packaging, which are typically related to public safety, health and/or environmental concerns. It also includes a brief overview of a few mandatory packaging requirements, as well as more common voluntary marks and/or labels used in EU markets.
It is also important to distinguish between marks and labels. A mark is a symbol and/or pictogram that appears on a product or its respective packaging. These range in scope from signs of danger to indications of methods of proper recycling and disposal. The intention of such marks is to provide market surveillance authorities, importers, distributors and end-users with information concerning safety, health, energy efficiency and/or environmental issues relating to a product. Labels, on the other hand, appear in the form of written text or numerical statements, which may be required but are not necessarily universally recognizable. Labels typically indicate more specific information about a product, such as measurements, or an indication of materials that may be found in the product (such as in textiles or batteries).
Mandatory Marks & Labels
Voluntary Marks and Labels
Countries in the European Union (EU)
Additional Countries of the European Economic Area (EEA) and European Free Trade Association (EFTA)
Candidates to Membership:
This is probably the most widely used and recognized marking required by the EU. Found in all "New Approach" legislation with a few exceptions, the CE marking demonstrates that a product meets all essential requirements (typically related to safety, health, energy efficiency and/or environmental concerns). CE marking is required for the following products/product families:
Cableway installations
For each "New Approach" directive there is a separate list of references to harmonized European standards, the use of which provides the manufacturer with the 'presumption of conformity' with essential requirements. While other non-EU standards may be used to demonstrate a product's compliance with the applicable directive(s), the manufacturer will have to provide detailed information regarding the compliance process. An array of standardized safety warning symbols/pictograms may also be applicable to each of the above product categories.
In 2008, the EU adopted a package of measures known as the New Legislative Framework which provides a regulatory 'toolbox' for new and revised EU product safety legislation. The framework is designed to improve market surveillance, more clearly define the responsibilities of manufacturers, importers and distributors, and clarify the meaning of CE marking across a wide-range of product groups. In February 2014, to align product harmonization legislation with the provisions of the NLF (most notably Decision 768/2008), the European Union adopted an "Alignment Package" consisting of eight revised CE marking directives. These newly aligned directives will be applicable in 2016.
For more information
Standards Specialist:
Commercial Assistant:
This directive is designed to tackle the rapidly increasing waste stream of electrical and electronic equipment, and complements European Union measures on landfills and waste incineration. Increased recycling of electrical and electronic equipment, in accordance with the directive requirements, limits the total quantity of waste going to final disposal. This directive affects the following product categories:
The symbol shown above must be displayed on all products that fall under this directive, and indicates that the product is not to be discarded with normal household waste. It is a required mark on batteries. In instances where this symbol cannot be displayed on the equipment itself, it should be included on the packaging.
Directive 2012/19/EU is available online at:
Commercial Specialist:
Directive 2010/30/EU "on the indication by labeling and standard product information of the consumption of energy and other resources by energy-related products" sets a framework for the adoption of product-specific directives on the proper energy efficiency labeling for each concerned product. This 2010 directive broadens substantially the energy labeling scope.
Suppliers are to supply free of charge labels or product fiches containing information about consumption of electric or other energy sources to their dealers. Dealers display labels in a visible and legible way and make the fiche available in product brochure or other literature.
Directive 2010/30/EU:
Contact: firstname.lastname@example.com
In addition to applying a CE marking for products falling under the ATEX Directive (2014/34/EC), it is necessary to display the Ex mark, which is a specific marking of explosion protection. Located next to the 'Ex' mark will be a symbol designating the product group or category as specified in the directive.
The revised ATEX Directive (2014/34/EC) was adopted in February 2014 as part of the New Legislative Framework alignment package. It replaced the existing directive and became applicable on April 20, 2016.
Directive 2014/34/EU:
Standards Specialist:
Commercial Assistant:
Machines used outdoors are subject to CE marking requirements. Noise emission levels are covered separately. The sample mandatory label shown above specifies noise emission levels.
The "steering wheel" mark shown above is the equivalent of CE marking for marine equipment. It applies to equipment for use on board any new EU ship, wherever the ship is situated at the time of construction, and to equipment placed on board existing EU ships, whether for the first time or to replace equipment already carried on board. It does not apply to equipment already on board on the date on which the directive entered into force in 1997. The directive applies to the following equipment categories:
A revised Marine Equipment Directive (2014/90/EC) was adopted in July 2014 and will be applicable on September 18, 2016.
Directive 96/98/EC on Marine Equipment is available online at:
Directive 2014/90/EC is available online at:
Commercial Assistant:
Textile products must be labeled or marked whenever they are put onto the market for production or commercial purposes (sale). The names, descriptions and details of a textile's fiber content must be indicated on products available to consumers. With the exception of trademarks or the name of the undertaking, information other than that required by the directive must be listed separately. Member States may require that their national language be used on the labeling and marking required by the directive.
Commercial Specialist
Labels must convey information relating to the upper, the lining and insole sock, and the outer-sole of the footwear article. The information must be conveyed by means of approved pictograms or textual information, as defined by the directive.
The label must be legible, firmly secured and accessible, and the manufacturer or his authorized agent established in the Community is responsible for supplying the label and for the accuracy of the information contained therein. Only the information provided for in the directive need be supplied. There are no restrictions preventing additional information being included on the label.
Contact: firstname.lastname@example.com
Containers and/or packaging (in certain cases) must bear, in indelible, easily legible and visible characters, the following:
The name, trade name and address, or registered office of the manufacturer or person responsible for marketing the cosmetic product within the Community
The nominal contents at the time of packaging (by weight or volume)
The date of minimum durability indicated by "Best before end", for products with a minimum durability of less than 30 months. In this case the following must figure on the packaging:
The period after opening during which the product can be used without harm to the consumer, for products with a minimum durability of less than 30 months (indicated by a symbol representing an open cream jar, as shown below)
Particular precautions for use
The batch number or product reference, for identification
The product's function
If it is impossible for practical reasons to print on the packaging all the conditions of use and particular warnings, an enclosed leaflet, label or tape has to be provided and the following symbol has to be on the packaging:
The Member States are to draw up procedures for providing the information set out above in the case of cosmetic products that have not been pre-packaged. The product function and list of ingredients also have to appear on the container or packaging. Member States may stipulate that the information on the label is provided in their national or official language(s).
About the labeling of nanomaterials present in cosmetics:
The Cosmetics regulation indicates that from July 2013 "all ingredients present in the form of nanomaterials shall be clearly indicated in the list of ingredient" and that "the names of such ingredients shall be followed by the word 'nano' in brackets".
Regulation 1223/2009 is available online at:
Market Research Report on "EU Cosmetics Legislation"
New Regulation on the Classification, Labeling and Packaging of Chemicals
The labeling of dangerous substances must indicate the following:
The name of the substance
The origin of the substance (the name and address of the manufacturer or distributor)
The danger symbol and an indication of danger involved in the use of the substance
A reference to the special risks arising from such dangers.
The dimensions of the label must not be less than a standard A8 sheet (52 x 74mm), and each symbol must cover at least one-tenth of the label's surface area. Member States may require their national language(s) to be used in the labeling of dangerous substances. Where the packaging is too small, the labeling may be affixed in some other manner. The packaging of products considered dangerous which are neither explosive nor toxic may go unlabeled if the product contains such small quantities of dangerous substances that there is no danger to users.
Symbols must be employed if the substance can be defined as any one of the following (as shown above): explosive, oxidizer, flammable, harmful, toxic irritant, corrosive, or harmful to environment. Containers of hazardous substances should include, in addition to the appropriate symbols, a raised triangle to alert the vision-impaired to their contents. Note that this directive has undergone numerous amendments relating, amongst other things, to the marking and labeling of additional substances. Accordingly, it is advisable to consult all literature.
Regulation 1272/2008 introduces new classification, labeling and packaging requirements for chemicals based on the Worldwide United Nation's Globally Harmonized System (UN GHS). It will gradually replace the Dangerous Substances Directive (65/548/EEC) and the Dangerous Preparations Directive (1999/45/EC) – and repeal them respectively in December 2010 and June 2015.
Regulation 1272/2008/EC on the classification, labeling and packaging can be found at http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2008:353:0001:1355:EN:PDF
Legal Metrology and Metric Units of Measurement
This legislation specifies permissible ranges of nominal quantities, container capacities and the weights or volumes of prepackaged products. Manufacturers are advised to take note that all labels require metric units, although dual labeling is also acceptable.
The directive requires an indication of the selling price, and price per unit of measurement, on all products offered to consumers. The aim is to improve the information available to the consumer and to facilitate price comparison. This information must be unambiguous, clearly legible and easily identifiable. If advertising mentions the item's selling price, it must also indicate its unit price. For products sold in bulk, the unit price is the only item whose indication on the label is mandatory. National authorities may provide alternatives for products sold by small retail business operations.
Directive 98/6/EC, on the indication of the prices of products offered to consumers, available online at: http://eur-lex.europa.eu/resource.html?uri=cellar:b8fd669f-e013-4f8a-a9e1-2ff0dfee7de6.0008.02/DOC_1&format=PDF
Nearly every vehicle component must be certified for safety as specified under the various directives relating to automobiles. The number shown in the rectangle on the label indicates the particular Member State in which the approval process was conducted. A "base approval number" must also be provided adjacent to this certification. This four-digit number will correspond to the directive and type of device in question. The country-number correlation is as follows (this is not an exhaustive list):
For more information:
All existing directives on motor vehicles, in chronological order, available online at:
A similar marking is an 'E' surrounded by a circle, which applies to the testing of headlight lamps, brake light lamps and turning signal lamps of all vehicles seeking EU market entry. These include consumer vehicles, low-volume production trucks, light and heavy goods vehicles, trailers, motorcycles, cranes, agriculture and forestry tractors, and special-purpose and off-road vehicles.
Tire label legislation requires that tire manufacturers declare fuel efficiency, wet grip and external rolling noise performance of C1, C2 and C3 tires (i.e. tires mainly fitted on passenger cars, light and heavy duty vehicles).
The objective of the regulation is better information for the consumer and a contribution to a more energy efficient transport policy.
For more information:
Directive 1222/2009/EC:
Directive 228/2011/EC:
The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive harmonized member state legislation regarding packaging material composition and the management of packaging waste. Composition of packaging material is addressed in a series of EU-wide standards. For the management of packaging waste through recycling targets and collection and recycling systems, member states have adopted voluntary marking mentioned in the following report.
Directive 94/62/EC, available online at:
Commercial Specialist:
Wood Packaging
Like the United States, the EU has adopted legislation to ensure pest control in wood packaging. The marking used for regulated materials is based on the International Plant Protection Convention compliance symbol shown above.
Contact: email@example.com
Fisheries Specialist: email@example.com
Manufacturers of containers, plates, cups, and other material that is intended to come into contact with food are required to check the compliance of their product with EU chemical safety requirements. Using the symbol shown above shows compliance with these requirements. It is mandatory to comply with the legislation, but the use of the symbol is voluntary.
THE e-MARK
The e-mark, shown above, acts as a metrological "passport" to facilitate the free movement of prepackaged goods. It guarantees that certain liquids and other substances have been packed by weight or volume in accordance with the directives. While compliance is not mandatory, free movement throughout the EU is guaranteed for prepackaged products that do comply with the provisions of the directive.
Containers with an e-mark also bear an indication of the weight or volume of the product, known as its "nominal" weight or volume. The packer (or importer, if the container is produced outside the EU) is responsible for ensuring that the containers meet the directive's requirements.
The European Eco-label enables European consumers, including public and private purchasers, to easily identify officially approved green products across the European Union, Norway, Liechtenstein and Iceland. Introduced in 1992, the label communicates to the customer that the marked products meet specific eco-friendly criteria that have been developed to apply to everyday consumer goods and services.
The symbol may apply to the following 27 product and services groups:
All purpose cleaners and cleaners for sanitary facilities
Household cleaning products
Textile products
Bed mattresses
Laundry detergents
Tissue paper
Campsite Services
Light bulbs
Tourist accommodation service
Copying and graphic paper
Vacuum cleaners
Detergents for dishwashers
Paints and varnishes
Washing machines
Personal computers
Wooden coverings
Printed paper products
Wooden furniture
Growing media and Soil improvers
Soaps, shampoos and hair conditioners
Hand dishwashing detergents
Soil improvers
Hard floor coverings
Heat pumps
Textile coverings
Manufacturers should be aware that similar eco-friendly markings are often used nationally, such as the Nordic Swan or the German Blue Angel, shown below.
The Eco-label program has recently been expanded to cover fish and fishery products. This means that eco-labeled products have been produced in accordance with specific environmental standards.
Private Eco labels have been developed by the seafood industry to "influence the purchasing decision of consumers and the procurement policies of retailers selling seafood products, in order to reward producers involved in responsible fishing and aquaculture practices leading towards sustainable use of natural resources."
There are multiple eco-label schemes, and logos, developed by a variety of operators and according to different characteristics. This confusing situation has led to a need for harmonization and coherence. In response, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has developed a "Guideline for the Eco-Labeling of Fish and Fishery Products from Marine Capture Fisheries" (http://www.fao.org/docrep/012/i1119t/i1119t.pdf).
The U.S. government has decided not to engage in the development of such marketing tool. Instead, NOAA Fisheries has developed a comprehensive website where stakeholders, including consumers, can find facts about a specific species of fish and related fisheries. Consumers can then make their own purchasing choice:
The European Commission is currently preparing, at the request of the European Parliament and the Council, a feasibility report on options for a Union-wide eco-label scheme for fishery and aquaculture products. Some EU member States have already created their own National eco label.
European Eco-label website
NOAA Fisheries Representative to the EU:
The "mobius loop" (sometimes known as the "chasing arrows"), based on an international standard, may be found on products throughout Europe and is meant to help consumers identify and participate in recycling schemes for product packaging and materials. As well as being used on printed packaging, the chasing arrows symbol is sometimes featured in the molds of glass, metal, paper, or plastic products. Various kinds of loops indicate whether the product is recyclable, recycled or contains recycled material.
The symbol above is an example of how a plastic's type may be indicated on a product. As part of the EU voluntary identification system for plastics, the following marks are used for the most common types of plastics (Decision 97/129/EC):
EU Number
Abbreviated Description
Full Plastic Description
Polyethylene Terepthalate
High Density Polyethylene
Poly Vinyl Chloride
Low Density Polyethylene
There are no EU-wide symbols used to designate the recyclable nature of glass. However, it is certainly encouraged on the national level with an array of symbols. The two shown above are only a small sample of the total existing to show recyclability.
The Energy Star, shown above, is a voluntary labeling program to help consumers identify the most energy-efficient office equipment on the market, i.e. computers, monitors, printers, copiers, scanners and multifunction devices. The Energy Star may be placed on products that meet or exceed energy-efficiency guidelines. Initiated by the United States, agreement with the EU was signed in December 2000 and then renewed in 2006 with the goal of coordinating the labeling program in the two markets. The agreement lays out a common set of energy-efficiency specifications, with a common logo that doubles as a marketing tool.
The Green Dot system is a scheme in which participating bodies coordinate the collection, sorting and recovery of used packaging. This system is actually administered according to national packaging laws (adhered to by packaging manufacturers, fillers, retailers and importers), and it should be noted that all participating national systems operate independently. The umbrella organization, PRO-Europe, is responsible for managing the Green Dot labeling system in Europe. More than 460 billion pieces of packaging marked with the Green Dot, shown above, are distributed worldwide. Interested applicants should contact one of the national administering authorities.
The Tarif Intégré de la Communauté (TARIC) is designed to show various rules applying to specific products being imported into the customs territory of the EU or, in some cases, when exported from it. To determine if a product is prohibited or subject to restriction, check the TARIC for the following codes:
CITES Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species
PROHI Import Suspension
RSTR Import Restriction
For information on how to access the TARIC, see the Import Requirements and Documentation Section.
Key Link:
General Veterinary Requirements: In April 1997, the U.S. and the EU reached an equivalency agreement on an overall framework for recognizing each other's veterinary inspection systems. The veterinary equivalency agreement covers more than USD 1.5 billion in U.S. animal product exports to the EU and an equal value of EU exports to the United States. The agreement preserved most pre-existing trade in products, such as pet food, dairy, and egg products. All beef and pork exported to Germany for human consumption must come from slaughterhouses, cutting plants, and cold stores approved for export to the EU. Since 1989, the EU has prohibited imports of beef from cattle treated with growth hormones. Soon after this ban went into effect, an agreement was reached between the United States and the EU that allows American producers of beef from animals not treated with hormones to export to the EU under certain conditions.
Beef: The EU beef market is largely insulated from the world market by high import duties. Import opportunities do exist, however, for selected products that are covered by fixed, relatively low tariffs for special quota. Most notably, the EU grants market access through a quota for annual imports of up to 11,500 MT of high-quality beef (HQB) from the United States and Canada, which is known as the Hilton quota. Beef entering the EU under the Hilton tariff-rate quota are subject to a 20 percent duty. The EU established a duty-free HQB tariff-rate quota (TRQ) for 48,200 tons of non-hormone treated beef as a result of the 2009 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at resolving the beef hormone dispute. However, the U.S. share of the quota is decreasing because the EU has since approved Australia, Uruguay, and other countries to use it. The EU has been unwilling to consider an allocation that would reserve a significant part of the TRQ for the United States.
Pork: Selected market opportunities exist for imports of pork. Market access within the EU has improved through the creation of a tariff-rate quota (TRQ) totaling 67,869 MT. The TRQ includes a 40,265 MT allocation for tenderloins, boneless loins and boneless hams. In addition, a 4,722 MT TRQ is reserved for boneless loins and boneless hams from the United States.
Poultry: Unfortunately, U.S. and EU negotiators have not been able to reach agreement on a number of important points during the veterinary equivalency negotiations, particularly in the poultry sector. The most contentious issue is the use of pathogen reduction treatments (PRT) in U.S. poultry processing. Most forms of PRT are prohibited in the EU. The EU's ban on PRTs effectively blocks U.S. poultry exports to the EU, which were estimated at USD 50 million in 1996. The US-specific quota of 21,345 MT, which was agreed in compensation for the accession of 12 new member states in 2004 and 2007, is also going unused because of this ban.
Dairy Products: The veterinary agreement allows for U.S. dairy products export to Germany and the EU from approved establishments under a fixed tariff. Effective April 1, 2012, all shipments of dairy products requiring EU health certificates must comply with new certification requirements regarding EU somatic cell count (SCC) and standard plate count requirements that reflect farm level sampling and must be accompanied by an updated Certificate of Conformance. The EU requires attestation and certification to SCC requirements not to exceed 400,000 cells/ml. The EU SCC requirement is not a public health issue but a quality issue. The EU maintains that the SCC requirements are an animal health/welfare indicator, but has also surmised during the T-TIP negotiations that SCC is a quality parameter. The U.S. maximum SCC for Grade 'A' milk is 750,000 cells/ml and is included in the model Pasteurized Milk Ordinance. The United States continues to engage the EU regarding their SCC requirement and has stressed the fact that the requirement is not a public health concern.
Pet food: In the EU, pet food is not regulated by one specific piece of legislation. The EU's feed marketing legislation covers food for companion animals as well as food for all other animals. Pet food is often also subject to the EU's veterinary legislation which has different product coverage than the feed marketing legislation. The veterinary legislation covers products of animal origin and hay/straw as these present a risk for spreading animal diseases. The EU's approach in dealing with these risks consists of a system of mandatory consignment notification and inspection at port of entry as well as product establishment approval and export certification in the country of origin. Specific certification rules have been developed for various product groups, including "animal by-products." The EU's animal by-product legislation contains several certificates required for successfully shipping pet food with animal origin ingredients. All exports of U.S. pet food to the European Union must comply with EU requirements which include rules on labeling, hygiene, animal health, certification and the use of additives. U.S. pet food exporters must verify the full set of import requirements with their EU customers. Final import approval is subject to the importing country's rules as interpreted by border officials at the time of product entry. (Please see the following link for more information: "Exporting Pet Food to the EU")
Plant Health: As part of the Single Market exercise, plant health regulations in the 28 European Union Member States have been harmonized. Harmonized maximum residue levels are regulated in regulation (EC) No 396/2005 of the European Parliament and of the Council and went into effect in September 2008. The EU has been successful in reducing the number of phytosanitary restrictions and new marketing opportunities have been created for U.S. horticultural exports. Phytosanitary certificates are required for most imported fresh fruits, vegetables, and other plant materials. With respect to the use of solid wooden packing materials (SWPM), it is important to note that the EU requires that all SWPM be either heat treated or fumigated since July 1, 2009. In addition to these treatment requirements, the material has to be free of bark. EU scientists fear that improperly treated SWPM is at risk for re-infestation. International plant protection standards as agreed upon by the United States do not require the absence of bark. Exporters should carefully follow the status of EU import requirements to avoid problems at the EU port of entry.
Horticultural Products: Germany is an important market for United States horticultural products. Principal products include almonds, walnuts, pistachios, prunes, raisins, cranberries, citrus, and pears. Horticultural products entering Germany face a number of import restrictions. In addition to considerable tariffs that vary by product, imports of selected fresh produce (tomatoes, cucumber, artichokes, zucchini squash, citrus, table grapes, apples, pears, apricots, sweet cherries, peaches, nectarines and plums) are subject to seasonal duties (entry price system). Under such a system, imports that have a price at or above the respective entry price are assessed only the appropriate ad valorem duty. Imports, which have a price below, but within a certain range of the entry price, are assessed the ad valorem duty plus a specific duty that is the difference between the import price and the entry price. "Within a certain range" generally means within eight percent of the entry price. Imports having a price more than 8% below the entry price are assessed the ad valorem duty plus a very large specific duty (known as the tariff equivalent) which generally takes the cost of the product (import price plus duties) far above the entry price.
Apples: In 2009, the EU removed Diphenylamine (DPA) as a plant protection product authorized for use within the EU. Subsequently, the EU established a maximum residue limit (MRL) of 0.1 parts per million (ppm) for DPA on apples and pears. This MRL was implemented on March 2, 2014, and affects both domestic and imported product. The MRL will be reviewed two years following the implementation date. However, the MRL of 0.1 ppm greatly limits the use of DPA on U.S. products destined for the EU. Such a low MRL could also result in rejection of untreated fruit due to inadvertent cross-contamination during handling and storage. Without the use of DPA or a workable MRL that accounts for cross contamination, the European market is significantly limited for U.S. apple exports. The United States and Codex have a harmonized standard of 10 ppm for apples and 5 ppm for pears. EU residue testing for DPA on apples falls under the coordinated multiannual control program of the Union to ensure compliance with maximum residue levels of pesticides and to assess the consumer exposure to pesticide residues in and on food of plant and animal origin within the EU.
Organic Products: The US-EU Organic Equivalence Arrangement took effect on June 1, 2012. The U.S. and EU have recognized each other's organic production rules and control systems as equivalent under their respective rules. Organic products certified to the USDA organic standards may be sold and labeled as organic in the EU. Both the USDA organic seal and the EU organic logo may be used on products traded under this Arrangement. When using the EU organic logo, exporters must meet all the EU labeling requirements.
Consumer-Ready Products: Imports of consumer-ready food products into Germany face many market access restrictions and very strict food laws. In addition to bound import duties, the EU has established a complex system of border protection measures for food products. Depending on the world market situation for basic agricultural commodities, such as dairy products, sugar and cereals, the EU mechanism of flexible tariffs may require variable import duties to protect European consumer-ready food products from imports made with lower-price inputs. Therefore, at many times processed products entering the EU are subject to additional import charges based on the percentage of sugar, milk fat, milk protein, and starch contained in the product. These additional import charges have made many imported processed food products non-competitive in the EU market. Reports on the German retail and gastronomy sectors are available under "attaché reports" at http://gain.fas.usda.gov/Pages/Default.aspx
U.S. Agricultural Commodity Associations Active in Germany
A number of U.S. agricultural commodity and other trade associations conduct market development programs in Germany. In some cases, these associations maintain field offices in Germany, while others may have a trade representative or public relations company representing their interests. Others may cover Germany from elsewhere in Europe or from offices in the United States. The USDA-operated Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development program (FMD) provide a portion of the funding for the market development programs of these associations. For further information about the MAP and FMD program or to know more about which associations are active in Germany, please contact the Office of Agricultural Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Berlin (https://de.usembassy.gov/about-fas/).
The following provides information on the major regulatory efforts of the EC Taxation and Customs Union Directorate:
The Union Customs Code (UCC) was adopted in 2013 and its substantive provisions apply from 1 May 2016. It replaces the Community Customs Code (CCC). In addition to the UCC, the European Commission has published delegated and implementing regulations on the actual procedural changes. These are included in Delegated Regulation (EU) 2015/2446, Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/341 and the Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/2447.
There are a number of changes in the revised customs policy which also require an integrated IT system from the customs authorities. In April 2016 The European Commission published an implementing decision (number: 2016/578) on the work program relating to the development and deployment of the electronic systems of the UCC.
Homepage of Customs and Taxation Union Directorate (TAXUD) Website
Key Link: http://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/index_en.htm
Customs Valuation – Most customs duties and value added tax (VAT) are expressed as a percentage of the value of goods being declared for importation. Thus, it is necessary to dispose of a standard set of rules for establishing the goods' value, which will then serve for calculating the customs duty.
Given the magnitude of EU imports every year, it is important that the value of such commerce is accurately measured for the purposes of:
These objectives are met using a single instrument - the rules on customs value.
The EU applies an internationally accepted concept of 'customs value'.
The value of imported goods is one of the three 'elements of taxation' that provides the basis for assessment of the customs debt, which is the technical term for the amount of duty that has to be paid, the other ones being the origin of the goods and the customs tariff.
Key Link:
Products tested and certified in the United States to American regulations and standards are likely to have to be retested and re-certified to EU requirements as a result of the EU's different approach to the protection of the health and safety of consumers and the environment. Where products are not regulated by specific EU technical legislation, they are always subject to the EU's General Product Safety Directive as well as to possible additional national requirements.
European Union legislation and standards created under the New Approach are harmonized across the member states and European Economic Area countries to allow for the free flow of goods. A feature of the New Approach is CE marking.
The concept of New Approach legislation is slowly disappearing as the New Legislative Framework (NLF), which entered into force in January 2010, was put in place to serve as a blueprint for existing and future CE marking legislation. Existing legislation has been reviewed to bring them in line with the NLF concepts, which means that, as of 2016, new requirements will have to be addressed and new reference numbers will have to be used on declarations of conformity. The date of applicability depends on the product category. For example, the new Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (2014/30/EU) replaced the existing law and became applicable on April 20, 2016.
While harmonization of EU legislation can facilitate access to the EU Single Market, manufacturers should be aware that regulations (mandatory) and technical standards (voluntary) might also function as barriers to trade if U.S. standards are different from those of the European Union. For more information about the NLF, go to http://ec.europa.eu/growth/single-market/goods/new-legislative-framework/.
Agricultural Standards
The establishment of harmonized EU rules and standards in the food sector has been ongoing for several decades, but it took until January 2002 for the publication of a general food law establishing the general principles of EU food law. This Regulation introduced mandatory traceability throughout the feed and food chain as of Jan 1, 2005. For specific information on agricultural standards, please refer to the Foreign Agricultural Service's website at: http://www.usda-eu.org
There are also export guides to import regulations and standards available on the Foreign Agricultural Service's website: http://www.usda-eu.org/trade-with-the-eu/eu-import-rules/certification/fairs-export-certificate-report/
EU standards setting is a process based on consensus initiated by industry or mandated by the European Commission and carried out by independent standards bodies, acting at the national, European or international level. There is strong encouragement for non-governmental organizations, such as environmental and consumer groups, to actively participate in European standardization.
Many standards in the EU are adopted from international standards bodies such as the International Standards Organization (ISO). The drafting of specific EU standards is handled by three European standards organizations:
Standards are created or modified by experts in Technical Committees or Working Groups. The members of CEN and CENELEC are the national standards bodies of the member states, which have "mirror committees" that monitor and delegate experts to participate in ongoing European standardization. CEN and CENELEC standards are sold by the individual member states standards bodies. ETSI is different in that it allows direct participation in its technical committees from non-EU companies that have interests in Europe and provides some of its individual standards at no charge on its website. In addition to the three standards developing organizations, the European Commission plays an important role in standardization through its funding of the participation in the standardization process of small- and medium-sized companies and non-governmental organizations, such as environmental and consumer groups. The Commission also provides money to the standards bodies when it mandates standards development to the European Standards Organization for harmonized standards that will be linked to EU technical legislation. Mandates – or requests for standards - can be checked on line at: http://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/mandates/index.cfm
Given the EU's vigorous promotion of its regulatory and standards system as well as its generous funding for its development, the EU's standards regime is wide and deep - extending well beyond the EU's political borders to include affiliate members (countries which are hopeful of becoming full members in the future) such as Albania, Belarus, Israel, and Morocco among others. Another category, called "partner standardization body" includes the standards organization of Mongolia, Kazakhstan and Australia, which are not likely to become a CEN member or affiliate for political and geographical reasons.
To know what CEN and CENELEC have in the pipeline for future standardization, it is best to visit their websites. Other than their respective annual work plans, CEN's "what we do" page provides an overview of standards activities by subject. Both CEN and CENELEC offer the possibility to search their respective database. ETSI's portal (http://portal.etsi.org/Portal_Common/home.asp) links to ongoing activities.
The European Standardization system and strategy was reviewed in 2011 and 2012. The new standards regulation 1025, adopted in November 2012, clarifies the relationship between regulations and standards and confirms the role of the three European standards bodies in developing EN harmonized standards. The emphasis is also on referencing international standards where possible. For information, communication and technology (ICT) products, the importance of interoperability standards has been recognized. Through a newly established mechanism, a "Platform Committee" reporting to the European Commission will decide which deliverables from fora and consortia might be acceptable for public procurement specifications. The European standards bodies have been encouraged to improve efficiency in terms of delivery and to look for ways to include more societal stakeholders in European standardization.
Key Link: http://ec.europa.eu/growth/single-market/european-standards/policy/index_en.htm
Standards are created or modified by experts in Technical Committees or Working Groups. The members of CEN and CENELEC are the national standards bodies of the Member States, which have "mirror committees" that monitor and participate in ongoing European standardization. The German organization that compiles standards is the Deutscher Industrie Normenausschuss - DIN (German Standards Institute, www.din.de). The DIN also compiles the standards that lay down the requirements for a "GS" mark. Since 1975, DIN has been recognized by the German government as the national standards body and represents Germany's interests at the international and EU levels. DIN offers a forum in which interested parties meet in order to discuss and define their specific standardization requirements and to record the results as German Standards. In DIN, standard work is carried out by some 26,000 external experts, serving as voluntary delegates in more than 4,000 committees. Draft standards are published for public comment, and all comments are reviewed before final publication of the standard. Published standards are reviewed for continuing relevance at least every five years. According to DIN, standards are designed to promote rationalization, quality assurance, safety, and environmental protection, as well as improving communication between industry, technology, science, government, and the public domain. The input of external experts into standardization is organized through standards committees and working groups. Each standards committee is responsible for a distinct area of activity and coordinates the corresponding standardization work at the EU and international levels. As a rule, the standards committee in DIN includes a number of technical sub-committees. There are currently 76 standards committees that maintain their own websites. Basic details of their area of activity and a list of the standards are published in English. Links to these committees are available on the www.din.de website.
Conformity Assessment
Conformity Assessment is a mandatory step for the manufacturer in the process of complying with specific EU legislation. The purpose of conformity assessment is to ensure consistency of compliance during all stages, from design to production, to facilitate acceptance of the final product. EU product legislation gives manufacturers some choice regarding conformity assessment, depending on the level of risk involved in the use of their product. These range from self-certification, type examination and production quality control system, to full quality assurance system. Conformity assessment bodies in individual member states are listed in the New Approach Notification and Designated Organizations (NANDO) information system.
Key Link: http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/newapproach/nando/
To promote market acceptance of the final product, there are a number of voluntary conformity assessment programs. CEN's certification system is known as the Keymark. Neither CENELEC nor ETSI offer conformity assessment services.
Product Certification
To sell products in the EU market of 28 member states as well as in Norway, Liechtenstein and Iceland, U.S. exporters are required to apply CE marking whenever their product is covered by specific product legislation. CE marking product legislation offers manufacturers a number of choices and requires decisions to determine which safety/health concerns need to be addressed, which conformity assessment module is best suited to the manufacturing process, and whether or not to use EU-wide harmonized standards. There is no easy way for U.S. exporters to understand and go through the process of CE marking, but hopefully this section provides some background and clarification.
Products manufactured to standards adopted by CEN, CENELEC or ETSI, and referenced in the Official Journal as harmonized standards, are presumed to conform to the requirements of EU Directives. The manufacturer then applies the CE marking and issues a declaration of conformity. With these, the product will be allowed to circulate freely within the EU. A manufacturer can choose not to use the harmonized EU standards, but then must demonstrate that the product meets the essential safety and performance requirements. Trade barriers occur when design, rather than performance, standards are developed by the relevant European standardization organization, and when U.S. companies do not have access to the standardization process through a European presence.
The CE marking addresses itself primarily to the national control authorities of the member states, and its use simplifies the task of essential market surveillance of regulated products. As market surveillance was found lacking, the EU adopted the New Legislative Framework, which went into force in 2010. As mentioned before, this framework is like a blueprint for all CE marking legislation, harmonizing definitions, responsibilities, European accreditation and market surveillance.
The CE marking is not intended to include detailed technical information on the product, but there must be enough information to enable the inspector to trace the product back to the manufacturer or the local contact established in the EU. This detailed information should not appear next to the CE marking, but rather on the declaration of conformity (which the manufacturer or authorized agent must be able to provide at any time, together with the product's technical file), or the documents accompanying the product.
Independent test and certification laboratories, known as notified bodies, have been officially accredited by competent national authorities to test and certify to EU requirements.
"European Accreditation" (http://www.european-accreditation.org) is an organization representing nationally recognized accreditation bodies. Membership is open to nationally recognized accreditation bodies in countries in the European geographical area that can demonstrate that they operate an accreditation system compatible to appropriate EN and ISO/IEC standards.
The German Accreditation Council (DAR) is a working group consisting of representatives of the ministries of the German Federal Government, ministries of the German federal states, and by representatives of the German industry, which was established in 1991.
The DAR coordinates the activities in the field of accreditation and recognition of laboratories, certification, and inspection bodies as far as they are represented in the DAR; it represents German interests in national, European and international organizations dealing with general issues of accreditation and recognition, including voluntary and mandatory (KOGB) areas. The DAR itself does not carry out any accreditations or recognitions.
All accreditation bodies represented in the DAR are operating on the basis of the EN 45000/EN ISO/IEC 17000 standard series and the DAR resolutions. With permission of the DAR, they may therefore use DAR certificates for accreditation.
Publication of Technical Regulations
The Official Journal is the official publication of the European Union. It is published daily on the internet and consists of two series covering adopted legislation as well as case law, studies by committees, and more (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/oj/direct-access.html?locale=en ). It also lists the standards reference numbers linked to legislation (http://ec.europa.eu/growth/single-market/european-standards/harmonised-standards/index_en.htm ).
National technical regulations are published on the Commission's website http://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/tris/en/ to allow other countries and interested parties to comment.
Technical regulations are published by the publishing house of DIN, Beuth Verlag: www.beuth.de
National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) Notify U.S. Service
Member countries of the World Trade Organization (WTO) are required under the Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT Agreement) to report to the WTO all proposed technical regulations that could affect trade with other Member countries.
Notify U.S. is a free, web-based e-mail subscription service that offers an opportunity to review and comment on proposed foreign technical regulations that can affect your access to international markets.
Register online at Internet URL: https://tsapps.nist.gov/notifyus/data/index/index.cfm
Contact Information
U.S. Mission to the EU
Marianne Drain, Standards Attaché, firstname.lastname@example.com, Tel: +32 2 811 5034
Diana Dus, Standards Specialist, email@example.com, Tel: +32 2 811 5001
Louis Fredricks, Commercial Assistant, firstname.lastname@example.com, Tel: +32 2 811 4194
National Institute of Standards & Technology
Dr. George W. Arnold, Director
Standards Coordination Office
100 Bureau Dr.
Mail Stop 2100
Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899
Tel: (301) 975-5627
Website: http://www.nist.gov/director/sco/index.cfm
CEN – European Committee for Standardization
Avenue Marnix 17
B – 1000 Brussels, Belgium
Tel: 32.2.550.08.11
Website: http://www.cen.eu
CENELEC – European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization
Avenue Marnix 17
B – 1000 Brussels, Belgium
Tel: 32.2.519.68.71
Website: http://www.cenelec.eu
ETSI - European Telecommunications Standards Institute
Route des Lucioles 650
F – 06921 Sophia Antipolis Cedex, France
Tel: 188.8.131.52.42.00
Website: http://www.etsi.org
SBS – Small Business Standards
4, Rue Jacques de Lalaing
B-1040 Brussels
Tel: +32.2.285.07.27
Website: http://sbs-sme.eu/
ANEC - European Association for the Co-ordination of Consumer Representation in Standardization
Avenue de Tervuren 32, Box 27
B – 1040 Brussels, Belgium
Tel: 32.2.743.24.70
Website: http:/www.anec.org
ECOS – European Environmental Citizens Organization for Standardization
Rue d'Edimbourg 26
B – 1050 Brussels, Belgium
Tel: 32.2.894.46.68
Website: http://www.ecostandard.org
EOTA – European Organization for Technical Assessment (for construction products)
Avenue des Arts 40
Tel: 32.2.502.69.00
Website: http://www.eota.eu/
Trade Agreements
For a list of trade agreements with the EU and its member states, as well as concise explanations, please see http://tcc.export.gov/Trade_Agreements/index.asp
Licensing Requirements for Professional Services
The recognition of skills and qualifications acquired by EU citizens in EU Member States, including the corresponding recognition procedures and charges are, in correspondence with article 165 of the TFEU, the responsibility of Member States. Similarly, recognition of skills and qualification earned in third countries is also a national responsibility.
However, the European Commission takes initiatives to facilitate recognition procedures. For example:
Recognition in other cases is assessed and granted (or denied) by the receiving educational provider or employer. For them to be able to recognise skills and qualifications understanding of the level, content and quality is needed. The Commission currently explores the possibilities on how to better support these recognition decisions.
The "Your Europe" website maintains a webpage dedicated to help citizens what the regulated professions are and what document are needed for their recognition in each Member State. Please see: http://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/work/professional-qualifications/recognition-of-professional-qualifications/index_en.htm.
Trade Regulation Web Resources
EU websites:
Online customs tariff database (TARIC):
The Modernized Community Customs Code MCCC): http://europa.eu/legislation_summaries/customs/do0001_en.htm
ECHA: http://echa.europa.eu
Taxation and Customs Union: http://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/index_en.htm
Security and Safety Amendment to the Customs Code - Regulation (EC) 648/2005:
Electronic Customs Initiative: Decision N° 70/2008/EC
Modernized Community Customs Code Regulation (EC) 450/2008):
Legislation related to the Electronic Customs Initiative:
Export Help Desk
What is Customs Valuation?
Customs and Security: Two communications and a proposal for amending the Community Customs Code: http://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/customs/policy_issues/customs_security/index_en.htm
Establishing the Community Customs Code: Regulation (EC) n° 648/2005 of 13 April 2005
Pre Arrival/Pre Departure Declarations:
AEO: Authorized Economic Operator:
Contact Information at National Customs Authorities: http://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/taxation/personal_tax/savings_tax/contact_points/index_en.htm
New Legislative Framework:
Cenelec, European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization: http://www.cenelec.eu/
ETSI, European Telecommunications Standards Institute: http://www.etsi.org/
CEN, European Committee for Standardization, handling all other standards:
Standardisation – Mandates:
ETSI – Portal – E-Standardisation:
CEN – Sector:
CEN - Standard Search: http://standards.cen.eu/dyn/www/f?p=CENWEB:105::RESET::::
Nando (New Approach Notified and Designated Organizations) Information System:
Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs): http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/newapproach/nando/index.cfm?fuseaction=mra.main
European Co-operation for Accreditation:
Eur-Lex – Access to European Union Law: http://eur-lex.europa.eu/en/index.htm
Standards Reference Numbers linked to Legislation:
What's New: http://ec.europa.eu/growth/news/index_en.htm
National technical Regulations: http://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/tris/en/
NIST - Notify U.S.: http://www.nist.gov/notifyus/
Metrology, Pre-Packaging – Pack Size:
European Union Eco-label Homepage: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/ecolabel/
U.S. websites:
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text:
Pump Action Pencil Launcher
Printable View
Pretty cool - but I don't think I will get one for my kids to take to HS.
AHhahahahahahahahaha!!! Perfect! I want one. :danceban:
He should get a patent and sell them!!
Love it...
When I first saw one of his first VIDS (sometime back when) my comments about him were pretty sarcastic. But, then I watched some more of his Vids and my thoughts about him changed for the better.
He is really a likeable, neat, inventive guy and really innovative with regard to slingshot design.
In fact it was his Videos that prompted me to add a slingshot into my B.O.B. along with some steel ball bearings.
Keep in mind that Jorg is living in a land of personal defense Handgun :nono:
Some of his more powerful slingshots are true fight stopping machines with a good head shot and he can make some head shots. He's very accurate with his sling shots. :yup:
I'm impressed. :yup:
That does look like fun...
All of this talk reminded me of the "slingshot man"...ever seen him? :congrats:
Carolina Camera: The Sling Shot Man - YouTube
Some things just have to be seen to be believed.
He's very accurate with his sling shots. http://www.filii.info/g.gif

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 4/2/2014 (1234 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
My family is very proud to call Brandon and western Manitoba home. I was born and raised here, and have dedicated my adult life toward working together with others to build our community.
I have done this as a private citizen, as a community volunteer, as a city councillor, as an elected representative with the Association of Manitoba Municipalities, and as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. Working for Brandon and the betterment of our community is a privilege and Brandon is always my top priority.
Consistent with this principle, I wish to put to rest all media speculation and state that I am not seeking the office of mayor in the upcoming municipal election.
There are many factors bearing on this decision, not the least of which is the fact that I respect the people of Brandon East and the mandate they have given me as their representative in the Manitoba legislature. Abandoning constituents who have placed their confidence and trust in me is not responsible, honourable, nor in the best interests of our community.
I also very much respect those who selflessly put their names forth to represent our community and am privileged to call both Shari Decter Hirst and Rick Chrest friends. I have personally known both for decades and respect their community spirit, their love of Brandon, and the qualities they bring to bear on the municipal challenges facing our community.
It is my hope and expectation that we will have a robust municipal election campaign this year, with an honest competition of positive ideas for how to make Brandon an even better community for all of us to live in. As a citizen, I hope for and will continue to encourage broad participation in this municipal election.
Drew Caldwell
Brandon East MLA


text:
|Effective: Summer 2015
|5 Unit(s)
|Advisory: Advisory: Not open to students with credit in H P 70.
|Grade Type: Letter Grade, the student may select Pass/No Pass
|Not Repeatable.
|FHGE: Humanities Transferable: CSU/UC
|5 hours lecture. (60 hours total per quarter)
|Student Learning Outcomes -
|Description -
|A comprehensive study of the evolution of theatrical dance in the western world from the 16th century through the present day. Includes the eras of French court ballet, ballet d'action, romantic and classical ballet, modern, post-modern and contemporary dance styles. Examines topics in dance as an art form, including origin and history of major styles, traditions, trends; outstanding artists and works; practice in observing and understanding dance in a historical and cultural context. Analysis of dance as an expression of social order, power, classical art, a medium of cultural fusion, and as an expression of individual artists.
|Course Objectives -
|The student will be able to:
|Special Facilities and/or Equipment -
|When taught as an online distance learning or hybrid section, students and faculty need ongoing and continuous Internet and Email access.
|Course Content (Body of knowledge) -
|Methods of Evaluation -
|Representative Text(s) -
|Au, Susan. Ballet and Modern Dance, 3nd ed., London: Thames and Hudson, 2012.
|Disciplines -
|Method of Instruction -
|Lecture, Electronic discussions/chat.
|Lab Content -
|Not applicable.
|Types and/or Examples of Required Reading, Writing and Outside of Class Assignments -


text:
Owner Financing Homes in 26447, WV
|7 Listings Found
and if you wanted to leave it you would have to speak to the owner of the property to see if it was ok
144 Jennings Run Road, Weston, WV, 26452Details »
Need a 3 beds home in or around Lewis county, must be willing to sell on land contract, husband
Weston, WVDetails »
, no land contracts. 472-XXXX
French Creek, WVDetails »
. About 85% of the land is wooded, with the rest being in fields. The woods are mainly red oak, tulip
Troy, WV, 26443Details »
or cabin site. Very good investment. Future timber. Enjoy the property while the timber and land value
Coxs Mills, WV, 26342Details »
. About 95% of the land is wooded, with the rest being in fields. The woods are mainly red oak, tulip
Normantown, WV, 25267Details »
a completed NRCS land improvement contract. There are several food plots and deer stands ready to go. Bring
Normantown, WV, 25267Details »
RentUntilYouOwn.com is the #1 provider of 26447 Walkersville, West Virginia owner financing homes listings.
Our goal is to offer the highest quality results, along with helpful 26447 Walkersville resources and support. We understand that finding genuine owner financing homes in 26447 Walkersville can be very difficult. Even more challenging is trying to search Walkersville, WV listings for free.
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text:
|Michael, Donna
|Ocon, Olga
|Talbot, Neil
|Rooke, John
|Ealy, Alan
Submitted to: American Journal of Reproductive Immunology
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/27/2006
Publication Date: 7/1/2006
Citation: Michael, D.D., Ocon, O.M., Talbot, N.C., Rooke, J.A., Ealy, A.D. 2006. Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor increases interferon-tau protein secretion without influencing the rate of interferon-tau gene expression in bovine trophectoderm. Domestic Animal Endocrinology. 56:63-67. Interpretive Summary: In ruminants (cattle, sheep, goats, deer, giraffe), the outermost embryo-produced tissue of the placenta, termed the trophectoderm, must proliferate extensively and secrete at least one key factor, termed interferon-tau (IFN-'), in order for pregnancy to succeed. Massive trophectoderm proliferation occurs in ruminants while the early embryo is free-floating in the uterus. In cattle, the embryo transforms from a 3-mm spherical shape to a 250-mm filamentous structure between days 13 to19 of pregnancy. This pre-attachment growth of the early embryo is essential not only to provide extensive surface area for placentation but also to insure that sufficient quantities of IFN-' are secreted so that pregnancy establishment is successful. It is clear that uterine-secretory factors modulate embryo development in ruminants. GM-CSF is produced by the uterine tissue of sheep and cattle, and there is increasing evidence that GM-CSF influences embryo development and IFN-' production in these species. In the present study, GM-CSF was investigated for its ability to stimulate trophectoderm proliferation and IFN-' production in an in vitro model of bovine trophectoderm, the CT-1 cell line. GM-CSF was found to simulate cell growth and IFN-' production of the bovine trophectoderm cells. These findings are important to our understanding of bovine pregnancy establishment and maintenance, and they may foster the development of improved production methods for cattle, sheep, and goats.
Technical Abstract: Uterine-derived factors influence ruminant trophectoderm development and production of the maternal recognition of pregnancy factor, interferon-tau (IFN-'), during peri-attachment conceptus development. Granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) is known to regulate conceptus development and is suspected to influence IFN-' production. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of GM-CSF on proliferation rates and IFN-' mRNA and protein production in an in vitro model of bovine trophectoderm (CT-1 cell line). Rate of [3H]-Thymidine incorporation into DNA was increased by supplementation of CT-1 medium with 10 or 100 ng/ml porcine (po) GM-CSF when compared with controls. GM-CSF supplementation to CT-1 medium also increased IFN-' protein secretion. When results were normalized to account for differences in number of CT-1 cells, 10 and 100 ng/ml poGM-CSF increased antiviral activity in CT-1 conditioned medium compared to non-treated controls. Lower concentrations of poGM-CSF did not affect antiviral activity of conditioned medium. In a separate study, IFN-' concentrations in conditioned medium were greater for CT-1 cells treated with 100 ng/ml poGM-CSF than non-treated controls when an IFN-'-specific ELISA was used to quantify IFN-'. Interestingly, poGM-CSF supplementation (100 ng/ml) did not affect the abundance of IFN-ô mRNA in CT-1 cells as determined by quantitative real time RT-PCR. These findings indicate that GM-CSF regulates trophectoderm proliferation in ruminant conceptuses. The mechanism by which GM-CSF regulates IFN-' production in the CT-1 cell remains unresolved but is not mediated at the level of transcription.


text:
Merlin Mann joins John Gruber for a quick two-hour holiday-week chat.
Tagged with "merlin mann" (6)
Like Giving Natalie Portman a Trucker Cap - The Talk Show - Mule Radio Syndicate
Tagged with john gruber merlin mann the talk show
Actuary Starship
Capt. Jerry & the Deviated Septum Crewe Zoo
Webstock 2012: Adam Lisagor interviewed by Merlin Mann
In the second of our interviews with a Webstock '12 speaker, we're both honored and delighted to present Adam Lisagor in conversation with Merlin Mann. They cover such topics as Webstock, the New Zealand accent, what it is Adam does, how he works and much, much more.
Tagged with adam lisagor merlin mann webstock lonelysandwich
Roderick on the Line - Ep. 01 - "Keep Moving and Get out of the Way"
Punctuality, Freud, reasons, John's brutal introversion, R.E.M.'s sense of humours, listening with toolboxes, the explicit honesty of volcano science, and ultimately rethinking humanity's Latifahesque, fleece-and-beards struggle with the two a priori laws.
Tagged with john roderick merlin mann roderick on the line
Roderick On The Line 00
Steak, Babies, Hitler, Molecules, Hearing Loss, and the Best of the Liberal Arts.
Pretty much what you'd expect.


text:
The dollar moved lower at levels below ¥97.50 in Tokyo trading Thursday, weighed down by weaker than expected U.S. economic data released overnight.
At 5 p.m., the dollar stood at ¥97.22-27, down from ¥97.44-45 at the same time Wednesday. The euro was at $1.3162-3163, down from $1.3171-3172, and at ¥127.98-128.00, down from ¥128.35-42.
The dollar carried over its weak tone from overnight trading overseas, where it was hit by selling due to unfavorable readings in U.S. economic data, including Automatic Data Processing Inc.'s private-sector jobs report for April.
The ADP report showed that nonfarm payrolls increased 119,000 in April from the previous month on a seasonally adjusted basis, lower than a consensus market forecast of an increase of 150,000.
The dollar was also pressured by the U.S. Institute for Supply Management's manufacturing activity index for April, which fell for the second straight month, market sources said.
The dollar fell to near ¥97 in early trading but later attracted buy orders from real demand-backed players before the four-day weekend.
After coming under selling pressure in line with falls of Japanese stocks, the dollar was stuck in a narrow range below ¥97.50 as a wait-and-see mood grew before the European Central Bank's policy meeting later Thursday.
"Although the dollar is on a weak note against the yen, investors are finding it difficult to tilt their positions either way before the announcement of a monetary policy decision by the ECB and the release on Friday of the U.S. government's jobs data for April," an official at a foreign -exchange margin trading service firm said.