Reinforcement of import controls

Royal Decree 330/2008, of February 29, 2008, establishes measures to reinforce the control of certain industrial products imported from third countries prior to their entry into the Spanish market. The regulation is aimed at ensuring that these products comply with the applicable safety and labeling standards in the EU market.

The Royal Decree is adopted within the framework of Regulation (EEC) No. 339/93 on conformity checks of imported products and responds to the increase in notifications of dangerous products detected in the European rapid alert system RAPEX, especially in goods from third countries.

Impact on electrical products

Products included in the scope of control include various household electrical equipment such as switches, lamp holders, plugs and sockets, as well as connections and contact elements for electrical cables.

These products must undergo conformity checks prior to customs clearance to verify that they meet the safety and labeling requirements of the European market. This aspect is particularly relevant for industrial companies involved in the manufacture, distribution or marketing of electrical equipment.

Control prior to customs clearance

The regulations establish that control actions will be carried out prior to customs clearance for free circulation, through the SOIVRE Inspection Service of the territorial and provincial Trade Directorates.

Inspections may include documentary controls and, where appropriate, physical controls with sampling or laboratory tests to verify the characteristics of the product, as well as its marking and labeling.

When the merchandise complies with the requirements, a Complete Reference Number (CRN) will be issued, which is necessary to continue with customs clearance. Otherwise, the product may be declared non-compliant, which will prevent its clearance or require the correction of the irregularities detected.

Obligations for importers

Importers must give prior notification of import operations to the corresponding territorial or provincial directorate of Commerce, providing information on the merchandise, manufacturer, origin, transport and other data necessary for the inspection.

Likewise, they must provide the documentation, records or certificates accrediting compliance with the safety regulations applicable to the products included in the scope of the Royal Decree.