The UK Conformity Assessed (UKCA) marking was introduced as part of the UK’s regulatory framework post Brexit.
However, the scheme has proved unpopular with UK industry and, reportedly under pressure from the business sector the UK government announced last week another extension to the deadline for applying the UKCA mark to manufactured goods.
This is the second time that the UK government has delayed the deadline with the new mark initially set to come in to force at the end of 2021.
Whilst the UKCA mark can be used now, the extension means businesses can choose to use the CE mark until December 31, 2024.
What’s more, businesses will be allowed to affix the UKCA mark and include importer information for products from EEA countries on an accompanying document or label until the end of 2027.
Conformity assessment activities for CE marking undertaken by the end of 2024 can be used by manufacturers as the basis for the UKCA marking until the end of 2027.
The UKCA mark was originally due to be implemented on January 1 2022 but the UK government said that the extension had been made in view of the current difficult economic conditions.
“This move will give businesses the breathing space and flexibility they need at this crucial time and ensure that our future system for product safety marking is fit for purpose, providing the highest standard for consumers without harming businesses,” said UK business secretary Grant Shapps.