The European Union is made up of 27 countries. The overall population of all these member states is almost half a billion. This could be a huge market worth tapping into if you have a product or service with international appeal.

Of course, if your company is not already based in an EU country, there are certain extra rules that you will need to follow in order to legally trade with EU customers. Below are just some of the main things to consider when selling to customers in EU countries. 

Do I need to pay any extra fees to sell in the EU?

Companies within EU countries have a free trade agreement - which means that they do not have to pay tariffs and follow import quotas when selling to customers in other EU countries. However, non-EU countries often have to still pay these tariffs and follow these import quotas. There are some exceptions though - despite Brexit, UK businesses for example do not have to pay these tariffs or follow these import quotas providing that goods meet the rules of origin (ROO). 

Companies in the UK and other non-EU countries do however need to follow EU VAT rules. Small companies that may otherwise be exempt from VAT when selling in the UK still have to charge and declare VAT when selling in the EU. This is something an accountant can help you with. 

Do products need to meet certain EU standards?

When selling to EU customers, products must meet EU standards. This includes not containing certain chemicals and ingredients, as well as containing certain information on the packaging.

You may find that while a product is legal to sell in your own country, it is not legal to sell in the EU. For example, certain food ingredients used in the US are not allowed in the EU. This page on EU product requirements explains more. 

Are there rules for specific industries?

Some rules are applicable only to certain industries. This is why it’s worth doing some industry-related research before you start selling to EU customers.

For example, financial services must apply for an LEI number before being able to trade in the EU. The likes of this LEI Australia site explains more about what an LEI is and whether you may need one. 

Is your website GDPR-compliant?

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is an EU law that ensures fair use of data for all EU internet users. All customers from EU countries that visit your website must be given the option to withhold their data.

It’s essential that you consider this when setting up your website. There are other GDPR laws also worth considering that can affect aspects like email marketing. 

Do I need a visa to work in the EU?

Planning on moving to an EU country to do business with EU customers? You may have to apply for an EU work visa. Different countries typically have their own visa requirements, so you need to look into individual country rules. Check out this guide to visa regulations across Europe. Entrepreneurs from other EU countries do not have to apply for such visas.