BRUSSELS, Aug. 18, 2025 - As the EU's comprehensive battery regulation becomes fully effective, e-commerce platforms are scrambling to enforce compliance among thousands of sellers, with non-compliant products already being removed from major online marketplaces.
The regulation, which affects everything from smartphone batteries to electric vehicle power packs, has created particular challenges for cross-border sellers who must now navigate complex registration requirements and provide detailed documentation for each battery-containing product.
Major e-commerce platforms including Amazon, AliExpress and eBay have implemented automated compliance checks that flag products containing batteries without proper documentation. "Sellers have received repeated notifications about the August 18 deadline," said Claudia Fischer, spokesperson for Amazon Europe. "We're now systematically removing non-compliant listings."
Platforms require sellers to upload EPR registration numbers, battery passport identifiers where applicable, and compliance declarations for each relevant product. The verification process can take 8-12 weeks, creating significant lead times for new product listings.
Small and medium enterprises are particularly affected, with many reporting confusion about the complex requirements. "The cost and complexity of compliance is making some product categories economically unviable for smaller sellers," explained Miguel Santos, who runs an electronics export business from Portugal.
The regulation also mandates clearer labeling for consumers, with all batteries now requiring visible capacity indicators, separate collection symbols, and hazardous substance declarations. Online product listings must display battery longevity information and recycling instructions.
European consumer organizations have welcomed the changes. "This empowers consumers to make more sustainable choices and ensures proper recycling of dangerous materials," said Birgit Keller, director of the European Consumer Protection Initiative.
However, initial confusion has been reported among consumers about what the new labels mean and how to properly dispose of batteries according to the new system.
The EU regulation is already influencing global standards, with several Asian countries considering similar requirements. "Europe is setting the de facto global standard for battery sustainability," noted Dr. James Robertson of the International Trade Centre. "Manufacturers serving global markets will likely adopt these standards across their product lines."
Chinese manufacturers, who supply approximately 60% of the world's lithium-ion batteries, have been particularly proactive in adapting to the new requirements. "Compliance with EU standards is now seen as a competitive advantage rather than a burden," said Zhang Wei, director of the China Battery Industry Association.
The rapid implementation of the battery regulation demonstrates the EU's increasing willingness to use its market power to shape global environmental standards. For businesses worldwide, adapting to these evolving requirements has become essential for maintaining access to the lucrative European market.