“What’s Good for Europe is Good for Israel”: Israel’s New Import Standards Explained

This blog was originally posted on 19th February, 2025. Further regulatory developments may have occurred after publication. To keep up-to-date with the latest compliance news, sign up to our newsletter.

AUTHORED BY JUMANA IGHBARIA HAMAM, REGULATORY COMPLIANCE SPECIALIST, AND M. KOSIAK, REGULATORY COMPLIANCE SPECIALIST, COMPLIANCE & RISKS

Starting 1 January 2025, Israel began a phased introduction of a new standardization track based on alignment with 42 EU regulations, in addition to the existing routes. This reform is a significant regulatory change aimed at improving market efficiency, reducing costs, and aligning Israeli standards with international norms. Over the next few months, the reform will be gradually rolled out.

What is Changing?

The standardization reform in Israel is part of a broader effort to modernize the country’s economy, enhance competition, and lower consumer costs. Historically, Israel maintained its own unique product standards, which often required testing and certification at the national level, even for goods that had already been approved under international standards. This system created trade barriers, making imports more expensive and limiting consumer choices. Businesses importing goods into Israel had to undergo lengthy and costly approval processes, which not only delayed the availability of products but also increased their final market price.

The complete list of EU regulations that will be recognized for importing products to Israel can be found on the website of the Israeli Ministry of Economy and Industry. Examples include the General Product Safety Regulation (EU) 2023/988, REACH (EU) 1907/2006, CLP Regulation (EU) 1272/2008, Battery Regulation (EU) 2023/1542, Radio Equipment Directive (EU) 2014/53, and many others. Originally 43 regulations were included in this list, however a reference to Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU has been recalled by this notice published by the Standardization Administration. Consequently, products falling within the scope of electrical equipment operating with a voltage rating of between 50 and 1000 V for alternating current and between 75 and 1500 V for direct current are excluded at the moment from the fast tracked access to the Israeli market. 

Once fully rolled-out, goods imported from Europe that meet EU standards will no longer require additional testing to comply with Israeli regulations.

It is important to note that import regulations are particularly stringent for certain high-risk goods, such as products for children up to three years of age, plastics intended for contact with food and beverages, and cleaning products. These are subject to additional provisions that supplement the EU regulations applicable to those products. The additional requirements, as detailed in the fifth appendix to the Israeli Standards Law, include the importers’ obligation to present specific documentation. Importers are responsible for identifying and adhering to these provisions.

What Products Can Follow the EU Track?

The range of products that will benefit from simplified import procedures if they comply with specific EU regulations spans multiple industries. The list includes:

• Electronics (smartphones, computers, televisions, home appliances, etc.)
• Medical devices (diagnostic tools, surgical instruments, implants, etc.)
• Machinery (industrial equipment, construction machinery, etc.)
• Toys (children’s toys, games, and play equipment, etc.)
• Cosmetics and personal care products (skincare, makeup, toiletries, etc.)
• Food and beverages (packaged foods, drinks, dietary supplements, etc.)
• Automotive parts and accessories (tires, batteries, car electronics, etc.)
• Construction materials (building products, insulation, cement, etc.)
• Chemicals (industrial chemicals, cleaning agents, biocidal products, etc.)
• Textiles and clothing (garments, fabrics, footwear, etc.)
• Energy-efficient products (LED lighting, energy-saving appliances, etc.)
• Furniture and household goods (furniture, home decor, bedding, etc.)

Does the Product Fall Under the New Import Route?

To answer this question the following must be addressed:

• Which EU regulations apply to your product?
• What is the starting date for your product to be eligible for conformity assessment under the adopted EU regulation? 
• What is the import classification of the goods? Do you need to comply with additional safety measures introduced by Israeli authorities? 

The Reform’s Vision for Israel

The main motivation behind the reform is to align Israel’s regulations with international norms, particularly those set by the European Union, and facilitate easier trade. This will allow foreign companies to sell their products in the Israeli market without unnecessary bureaucratic burdens, streamlining the approval of new products and their entry into Israel. This is especially crucial given that the European Union is Israel’s largest trading partner, and harmonising standards can significantly boost economic cooperation.

The reform has also the potential of reducing the cost of living, which has been a major concern in Israel for years. The previous regulatory framework led to higher prices for many imported goods, from electronics to food products. By simplifying import processes and removing redundant local testing requirements, the reform is expected to lower costs, increase consumer choice, and enhance competition.

Beyond economic benefits, the reform seeks to improve Israel’s attractiveness as a global business hub. The government hopes to encourage foreign investment and make it easier for Israeli businesses to access new technologies and materials. The shift from a rigid pre-market certification system to a more flexible post-market surveillance model is designed to maintain safety and quality standards while reducing red tape. This will integrate Israel more deeply into the global economy. It reflects a shift toward a more open and competitive market, benefiting consumers, businesses, and international trade partners alike. However, while the reform offers significant advantages, its success depends on effective implementation, enforcement mechanisms, and ensuring that local industries can compete in the evolving regulatory landscape. Additionally, an overhaul like this presents its own potential challenges.

The Challenges Facing Israeli Manufacturers

Despite its many advantages, the standardization reform in Israel also presents several challenges that could affect its implementation and long-term success. One of the main concerns comes from local manufacturers who, in the potential presence of international brands that benefit from economies of scale and lower production costs, fear the increased competition. 

Another challenge lies in maintaining regulatory oversight and consumer protection. The reform shifts the responsibility of product approval from a pre-market certification system to post-market surveillance, meaning that instead of rigorous testing before a product enters the market, authorities will conduct random inspections after goods have already been sold. While this approach significantly reduces bureaucracy and speeds up market entry, it also raises questions about how rigorous the inspections will be. If enforcement agencies lack the necessary resources or expertise to monitor compliance adequately, there is a risk that substandard or even dangerous products could flood the market, potentially harming consumers and undermining public confidence in the new system.

Stay Ahead Of Regulatory Changes in Israel

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