For products to smoothly enter the EU market, meeting the Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) requirements under CE certification is a mandatory technical threshold. But many companies find products that passed last year now face new hurdles, driven by the EU's continuously evolving regulations and harmonized standards.
The legal basis is the EU EMC Directive (2014/30/EU), with technical specifics in "harmonized" EN standards, which are periodically revised.
1.Consolidated Update of Core EMC & Wireless Standards
On May 15, 2025, the EC published Implementing Decision (EU) 2025/893, updating important harmonized standards and setting clear expiry dates for old versions. Products newly applying for certification after these dates must be tested to the new versions.
2.Cybersecurity Mandatory for Wireless Devices
A groundbreaking 2025 rule for all wireless products (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular). Per Decision (EU) 2025/138, the EN 18031 cybersecurity series became mandatory under RED from August 1, 2025.
-EN 18031-1: For all internet-connectable wireless devices. Requires anti-network attack capabilities, secure comms protocols (e.g., TLS 1.3), forced secure firmware updates.
-EN 18031-2: For devices handling personal/voice/financial data (e.g., health bands, smartwatches). Requires data encryption (e.g., AES-256) and privacy features.
This means smart wearables, smart home, connected industrial devices, etc., must undergo additional cybersecurity assessment alongside traditional EMC/RF tests to obtain CE marking.
II. Product Classification & Corresponding Standards Explained
EMC standards vary greatly by product category.
1.IT & Multimedia Equipment (computers, monitors, printers, TVs, audio):
-Core Standards:EN 55032 (replaces old EN 55022/13) and EN 55035.
-Tests: EMI (Conducted/Radiated Emissions), EMS (ESD, RS, EFT/B, Surge, etc.).
2. Household Appliances & Power Tools (refrigerators, drills, hair dryers):
-Core Standards:EN 55014-1 (emissions) and EN 55014-2 (immunity).
-Key Tests: Plus Harmonic Current Emissions (EN 61000-3-2) and Voltage Fluctuations & Flicker (EN 61000-3-3) due to motors/heaters.
3. Lighting Equipment (LED Luminaires):
-Core EMC Standards:EN 55015 (emissions) and EN 61547 (immunity).
-Special Tests: Harmonic current & flicker. Also Photobiological Safety (EN 62471) and EMF Exposure (EN 62493) assessments.
4.Wireless Communication Devices (most complex/rapidly updating):
-Framework: Must comply with both EMC and RED directives.
-EMC Standards:EN 301 489 series (dozens of parts for different tech, e.g., Bluetooth: -17, Wi-Fi: -52).
-RF Standards: e.g., EN 300 328 for 2.4GHz, EN 301 893 for 5GHz Wi-Fi.
-New Mandatory Tests:Cybersecurity (EN 18031 series) and Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) – EN 50566/EN 62311 for body-worn devices.
5.Industrial, Scientific, & Medical Equipment:
-Standards: Often require additional stringent immunity tests like Power Frequency Magnetic Field (EN 61000-4-8) and Voltage Dips & Interruptions (EN 61000-4-11).
-Medical Devices: Must meet the more stringent dedicated EMC standard EN 60601-1-2 under the Medical Devices Regulation.
III. Key Actionable Advice for Exporters
1."Standards-First" Principle: Identify the latest applicable harmonized standard versions during the R&D/design phase as design inputs. Don't assume last year's standards still apply.
2Monitor "Expiry Dates": Pay close attention to expiry dates for old standards, as listed in decisions like (EU) 2025/893. Plan product upgrades and re-certification well before expiry.
3.Comprehensive Assessment for Wireless Products: From H2 2025, cybersecurity (EN 18031) assessment must be integrated into project plans and budgets for any wireless product, potentially increasing timeline and cost.
4.Partner with Experts: Given the complex, evolving standard system, maintaining communication with certification bodies knowledgeable about EU regulatory dynamics is key for efficient compliance.
IV. Conclusion: Compliance is an Ongoing Process
CE EMC certification is not a one-time "pass." By continuously updating harmonized standards, the EU drives technological advancement in EMC, cybersecurity, and energy efficiency. For exporters, establishing a routine regulatory monitoring mechanism and deeply integrating compliance into product lifecycle management is the foundation for calmly navigating changes and ensuring market access.
BLUEASIA Tech: +86 13534225140** provides professional certification consulting services.
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