Manufacturers, importers and retailers should distinguish the Product Regulation and Metrology Act 2025 from the detailed regulations that apply to a particular product. The Act provides powers to update the framework; it does not impose every proposed new rule on every business immediately.
A framework for further regulation
The Act received Royal Assent in July 2025. The Office for Product Safety and Standards describes it as enabling the government to update technical product requirements, respond to emerging risks and address the role of online marketplaces.
Consultation proposals and policy announcements are useful indicators of direction, but the relevant regulations, commencement dates and transitional provisions must be checked before deciding that a particular duty has changed.
Existing obligations still matter
A business should first identify the rules already applicable to its products and its role in the supply chain. Requirements can differ between manufacturers, importers, distributors and online intermediaries. Territorial differences, including arrangements affecting Northern Ireland, may also matter.
Practical checks include the identity of the responsible supplier, product specifications, relevant testing and conformity documents, labelling, traceability and procedures for responding to safety concerns. These should be assessed against the actual product regime, not a generic compliance checklist.
Make contracts support compliance
Supplier agreements should address the information and evidence the business needs, notification of defects, cooperation with regulators and responsibility for corrective action. Commercial remedies are more useful when the relevant standards and responsibilities are clear before products are ordered.
Balaghi & Rose assists businesses with supply agreements, contractual disputes and regulatory investigations. Contact info@balaghi-rose.com if your business needs advice on a supply-chain issue or enforcement concern.
Updated 23 October 2026. General information only; advice depends on the facts and the law applicable to your matter.
