With GPSR having come into effect on the 13th of December, Etsy are to introduce two new features to enable sellers to discontinue offering their items to Northern Ireland buyers. It’s expected that the Etsy Northern Ireland solution will be updated by the 31st of December, with another coming for those that wish to discontinue offering their digital items to Northern Ireland and the European Union.
Etsy Northern Ireland block
Selling to Northern Ireland particularly troublesome for small businesses, often micro-businesses, selling on Etsy. They simply can’t afford to engage a responsible person for one or two odd sales to Northern Ireland. Recognising this, Etsy has committed to enable UK sellers to block sales to this part of the UK.
While here at ChannelX we think it a travesty that a UK seller can’t sell to the entire UK without a representative in the UK, from a practical perspective it’s the only financially viable option for many small sellers.
Etsy has committed to introduce “a solution for sellers who wish to discontinue offering their items to Northern Ireland buyers“. They say that they are actively working on this, and will provide an update on timing by the 31st of December 2024 and in the mean time sellers can update their shipping options and cancel certain orders.
Etsy digital items to Northern Ireland and the European Union
Digital items aren’t quite as easy to block as physical products, so Etsy will introduce a solution for sellers who wish to discontinue offering their digital items to Northern Ireland and the European Union. Again they say that they are actively working on this, and will provide an update on timing by the 31st of December 2024 and in the mean time sellers can cancel orders if needed.
Non-compliance impacts
If a product is subject to GPSR, but does not meet its requirements, the product may be considered a “dangerous product.” This can lead to EU or NI authorities taking corrective action, including imposing fines, banning, or removing the product from the market. Should Etsy receive a notification from an authority that your product is non-compliant, they will take appropriate action, which may include removing your listing and/or suspending your account.
One Response
Slow off the mark, but good to see them taking action.