Published on: 23 September 2021
Whilst the acceptance of the Conformitè Europëenne (CE) mark has been extended until January 2023, we must not forget that the regulations for recreational craft have changed, and whilst we do not have to recertify craft until January 2023, many of the obligations on importing European craft into the UK have still changed.
Before Brexit, boats brought to the UK from the EU were done so by distributors or private individuals, after Brexit this changed, and distributors have automatically become importers whilst private individuals have become private importers.
So what does that actually mean?
Distributors and importers have different definitions within the regulations and as such they have different responsibilities in law. An importer is now the leading contact for regulators when it comes to the boats manufacture, sale and certification, the overseas manufacturer no longer is.
This means that an importer must check the documentation, must check the certification, must have access to all the technical data on the boats design and build, and also must have their contact information on or with the product, so that the government, and the consumer, knows who to contact in the UK if there’s a problem.
In addition, the overseas manufacturer must register as a manufacturer on the UK Manufacturers Identity Code (MIC) database if they are exporting to Great Britain and it is the importer’s responsibility to ensure that they have done so.
Brexit has taken a little longer than expected but things have changed, and they will continue to do so. It is important that all of us in the marine industry keep an eye on what is happening and when to ensure we do not fall foul of something we may not be aware of.
To find out more on what your responsibilities are as an importer, British Marine runs an awareness course or if you are a British Marine member you can simply ask us by calling us on 01784 473377.
We also release information on these changes and others in latest news and in the quarterly Technical Report – which we recommend you keep an eye out for!