What is CE Marking (CE Mark)
 

CE Marking is the symbol  as shown on the top of this page. The letters "CE" are the abbreviation of French phrase "Conformité Européene" which literally means "European Conformity". The term initially used was "EC Mark" and it was officially replaced by "CE Marking" in theDirective 93/68/EEC in 1993. "CE Marking" is now used in all EU official documents.

 

The letters ‘CE’ appear on many products traded on the extended Single Market in the European Economic Area (EEA). They signify that products sold in the EEA have been assessed to meet high safety, health, and environmental protection directives and regulations.

 

CE marking indicates that the product is allowed to be traded within the EEA. Often it is described as a trade passport because it enables the free movement of products within the European market. According to EU legislation, the EU Member States are not allowed to restrict the placing on the market of CE marked products, unless such measures can be justified on the basis of evidence of the non-compliance of the product. CE marking does not indicate that a product was made in the European Union. The CE mark also is not a quality mark.

 

If your product comes under the scope of a directive requiring CE marking you must ensure the product complies with the applicable requirements and affix the CE mark before placing it in the market in the EEA. This is equally valid if your product is manufactured outside the EEA. Second hand products from outside the EEA that are placed in the EEA market for the first time, also require CE marking.