The European Union’s Rapid Alert System for dangerous products is being used more and more by national authorities. Data released by the European Commission on March 12 show more than 2,000 alerts were circulated through the system last year – toys, cars and motorcycles topped the list.
“European consumer rules guarantee that only safe products are sold in the EU,” said Věra Jourová, Commissioner for Justice, Consumers and Gender Equality. “If this is not the case, the Rapid Alert System supports authorities to react quickly and remove any products that might cause injuries.
“Thanks to this system, we are keeping our children safe and preventing fatal accidents on our roads. This is a good example of how to efficiently enforce EU consumer rules. Unfortunately, in many other areas we need to improve enforcement and make sure consumers can benefit from their rights. This is what our upcoming ‘New Deal for Consumers’ is all about.”
The New Deal will be unveiled in April, according to the press release.
Thirty-one countries (EU together with Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway) currently participate in the system. The Rapid Alert System functions thanks to daily and continuous close cooperation between member states.
