Product standards and regulations

Guidance on great.gov.uk

Understand product standards and regulations

Product standards and market regulations are any legislation set by governments, industry or regulatory bodies which control how your goods can be traded in a market.

Show Hide

It can take a lot of time and resources to fully understand the regulations you may face in different markets, and to achieve the appropriate accreditation necessary for trade. You can carry out basic internet research, using the websites of the appropriate regulatory bodies and tools like the UK government’s Check international trade barriers service.

Service on GOV.UK

Explore local rules in a target market

All export markets have specific rules you’ll need to follow if you want to sell your products in that market. It is essential you’re up to date with the latest packaging and labelling rules before you start exporting.

Show Hide

Our Check how to export goods service can help you find the latest rules and regulations in your chosen export market. Search for your market, click on the General Information tab and scroll to the information on packaging and labelling.

Service on GOV.UK

Understand relevant export market regulations and certifications

Certification is sometimes required to prove your product or service complies with local market regulations, such as health and safety or labelling and packaging.

Show Hide

Our Check how to export goods service can help you find the latest regulations and certifications needed to trade your goods in your chosen export market. Search for your market, click on the General Information tab and scroll to the relevant information.

Service on GOV.UK

Understand trade and operational restrictions

Trade and operational restrictions are often implemented by governments to try and offer some protection to local businesses from overseas competition. You should check for any restrictions as a priority before you start exporting your goods or services.

Show Hide

Our Check how to export goods service can help you find trade and operational restrictions currently in place in your chosen export market. Search for your market, click on the General Information tab and scroll to the relevant information.