Overview of the different labeling and marking requirements, including any restrictive advertising or labeling practices and where to get more information.

Manufacturers should be mindful that, in addition to the EU’s mandatory and voluntary systems, national voluntary labeling schemes might still apply.  These systems may be highly appreciated by consumers, and thus become unavoidable for marketing purposes.
Manufacturers are advised to take note that all labels require metric units although dual labeling is also acceptable.  The use of language on labels has been the subject of a Commission Communication, which encourages multilingual information, while preserving the right of member states to require the use of the language of the country of consumption.
An overview of EU mandatory and voluntary labeling and marking requirements has been compiled in a market research report that is available at EU Marking/Labeling Requirements.
 
The EU has mandated that certain products be sold in standardized quantities. Council Directive 2007/45/EC harmonizes packaging of wine and spirits throughout the EU. Existing national sizes will be abolished with a few exceptions for domestic producers.
 
Key Link: EC Europa-EU – Pack Sizes
 
The Eco-label
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.
For more information, please refer to EU Marking/Labeling Requirements.
Key Link:  EC Europa-EU - Ecolabel

 

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.