Upcoming replacements and updates to CE Directives and EU Regulations

The CE marking landscape in Europe is continuously evolving as the European Union updates its product legislation to reflect new technological, environmental, and safety priorities.
Below, we provide an overview of the main CE Directives and Regulations that are currently in force – and highlight those that will soon be replaced.

The new Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 was published on 14 June 2023 and will replace the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC on 20 January 2027.

This update marks one of the most significant shifts in CE legislation.
The new regulation strengthens requirements for digital documentation, addresses AI and connected machinery, and introduces clearer manufacturer obligations.

Key compliance takeaway:
Manufacturers should begin updating their technical documentation and conformity assessment processes now to ensure compliance by 2027.

The Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC remains in force for now.
However, the European Commission has announced plans for a new Toy Safety Regulation, which will modernise the framework for chemical safety, digital instructions, and enforcement.
The proposal has not yet been published but is expected to introduce stricter requirements for both physical and online sales.

The Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR – (EU) 2024/1781) was published on 28 June 2024.
It replaces the Ecodesign Directive 2009/125/EC, but the Directive will remain in effect until 31 December 2026.

What makes this transition unique is that product-specific implementing measures under the old Directive will continue to apply until replaced by new delegated acts under the ESPR.

The ESPR significantly broadens the scope of ecodesign rules, introducing:

• Sustainability and circularity criteria for almost all physical goods.
  
• Requirements for digital product passports.
  
• Provisions for better traceability and reusability of materials.

Key compliance takeaway:
Businesses must prepare to collect, manage, and disclose sustainability data as part of their product compliance process.

The Radio Equipment Directive (RED) remains in force, but Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/30 introduces new cybersecurity, privacy, and data privacy obligations for connected devices.

This delegated regulation enters into force on 1 August 2025.

Key compliance takeaway:
Manufacturers of connected products (e.g. smartphones, smart home devices, wearables) must ensure that their devices include safeguards against unauthorised access, protect personal data, and maintain secure communications.

While the following remain unchanged, companies should continue to monitor EU publications for updates:

CE legislation continues to evolve toward greater sustainability, digital integration, and safety.
To remain compliant:

1. Monitor new and delegated regulations through EUR-Lex or the Official Journal of the EU.
   
2. Update technical documentation and Declarations of Conformity before transition deadlines.
   
3. Review product categories affected by sustainability or cybersecurity requirements.
   
4. Plan regulatory change monitoring as an ongoing compliance activity.

If you need expert support in navigating these regulatory updates, ensuring correct CE marking or appointing an EU or UK Authorised Representative, you can learn more about our services. Our team helps manufacturers stay compliant, avoid delays and maintain market access across Europe and the UK.

• EUR-Lex: Access to European Union law
  
• European Commission: CE marking
  
• Official Journal of the European Union