# EU Economic Operators: Manufacturer, AR, Importer, Distributor — Who's Liable?

CE marking law places specific legal obligations on four different actors in the supply chain: manufacturers, authorised representatives, importers, and distributors. Each has a distinct role, a distinct set of duties, and a distinct liability exposure. If you import CE-marked products into the EU from outside, you carry obligations closer to a manufacturer than a retailer — and most importers don't know this.


## Transcript

### Four actors, four different liability positions

CE marking law doesn't treat everyone in the supply chain the same way. The EU's New Legislative Framework defines four roles — manufacturer, authorised representative, importer, and distributor — each with distinct obligations and liability. Importers are often surprised how much they carry.

### The four roles explained

The manufacturer designs and places the product on the market, carrying primary liability. If based outside the EU, they must appoint an EU Authorised Representative as their contact point. Importers must verify compliance before selling. Distributors must never supply products known to be non-compliant.

### Why this matters if you import

If you import products into the EU from a non-EU manufacturer, you're an importer under EU law — you can't rely on their CE mark alone. Check the technical file exists and the DoC covers the right directives. You're liable too.

Tags: EU economic operators, CE marking, importer obligations, authorised representative, product liability