Product requirements and labelling

Product requirements are primarily intended to protect human health, the environment and safety. Each country has its own regulations and requirements for testing, certification, labelling and more. Some are mandatory, while others are voluntary to varying degrees. If you plan to export in the future, check early on which requirements apply to your product in the country or markets you want to target.

By identifying the applicable requirements early in the design and development phase, your company can avoid time-consuming and costly product modifications later on, have the necessary documentation ready for a tender process or potential market surveillance, and ensure smooth customs clearance and delivery to customers abroad.

If you import goods from a manufacturer outside the EU or EEA and intend to sell them in Norway, you have the same responsibility as a manufacturer within the EU or EEA to ensure that the goods meet product and labelling requirements.

• Are you developing or selling a product that could pose a risk to health, the environment or safety due to the nature of the product itself or its intended users?
• What product and labelling requirements must you meet to legally place the product on the market?
• How long will it take to carry out the testing and prepare the necessary documentation? How much will this cost? Has your company allocated funds for this in its budget?
• Are you planning to sell in more markets now or in the future? Would adapting your product for additional markets be profitable, or would it require too many resources?
• How can you stay up to date with the requirements and regulations that apply?