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Frequently Asked Questions
Regulatory & Compliance
Market Entry Process & Strategy
Product Labeling, Packaging & Identity
Sales & Distribution Channels
Marketing & Communication
Cooperation with GTM Europe
Regulatory & Compliance
What documents are required for product registration in the EU?
The required documents may vary depending on the type of product (e.g., food supplement, cosmetics, etc.), but typically include: product composition details, manufacturing specifications, label layout, safety data, and manufacturer declarations. Our team assists in preparing all necessary documentation according to the specific requirements of each country.
Are the lists of approved ingredients the same in Japan and the EU?
Not always. Some ingredients that are permitted in Japan may be restricted or banned in the EU. Additionally, the EU sets specific concentration limits for certain substances. That’s why it is important to carry out an ingredient compliance analysis according to EU regulations.
Are animal tests required?
No. The EU bans animal testing for cosmetic products. It is also prohibited to sell products containing ingredients that were tested on animals after the ban came into effect. Alternative safety assessment methods are required in Europe.
Can the same product be considered a food supplement in one country and a medicine in another?
Yes, it’s possible. EU member states may classify the same product differently based on local practices. That’s why it’s essential to assess how the product will be classified in a specific country before entering the market.
How can I stay informed about regulatory changes?
Registered users receive notifications through our internal system. We provide not only the updates themselves, but also an analysis of what the change means for your specific product, what actions need to be taken, and the potential risks of non-compliance if the requirements are not met on time
How do you handle customer complaints or returns?
GTM Europe helps clients prepare return and complaint policies in accordance with EU regulations, including consumer rights as outlined in Directive 2011/83/EU. We also provide guidance on product liability (Product Liability Directive 85/374/EEC) and assist in preparing the necessary documentation and process descriptions. We offer templates and best practices tailored to both retail and e-commerce environments.
What should I do if legal risks arise?
Our team includes experts who closely monitor regulatory changes. When a risk emerges (e.g., related to ingredients or labelling), we provide recommendations based on EU legislation, as well as guidance from EFSA or ECHA. If necessary, we involve our legal partners in specific countries. This approach ensures your business avoids financial or reputational losses.
What is important to know when sending product samples?
Samples may also be inspected by customs and must meet product registration requirements. When sending samples of food supplements or cosmetics, it is necessary to include specifications, a label layout, and an ingredient list in English. We assist in preparing all accompanying documents and, if needed, conduct a preliminary risk review.
Can the same product be used in all EU countries?
Theoretically – yes, but in practice, adaptation is often required. Some ingredients or health claims are allowed only in specific countries. Additionally, the language of the label, the way information is presented, or even the marketing tone must be tailored to local requirements. GTM Europe helps ensure that the product is suitable for all countries or precisely prepared for the selected market segment.
What is a "Notified Body" and is it required?
A "Notified Body" is an officially authorized third party that assesses the compliance of certain products (e.g., medical devices, some cosmetics, or wellness products) with EU requirements. Food supplements or traditional cosmetics typically do not require this, but for "borderline" categories (intermediate products), it may be necessary. We assess whether this procedure is required for your product.
Is a product safety report (CPSR) required?
Yes, a Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR) is required for all cosmetic products before registration in the CPNP system. This is a document prepared by a professional expert, evaluating the ingredients, their concentrations, product usage, safety, and potential effects. Our team includes a specialist who prepares such reports.
Do you assist with health claims?
Yes. In food supplement marketing, health claims must comply with Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006. They can only be used if they are included in the EFSA-approved list or if the claim is supported by approved scientific literature. We assist in selecting permissible formulations and avoiding mistakes.
Is product registration valid indefinitely?
Not always. In most cases, registration or notification does not have an expiration date, but it must be regularly updated if there are changes to the composition, packaging, claims, or regulations. Our system sends notifications about any changes and helps ensure compliance.
How important is the environmental aspect in the European market?
Very important. EU consumers value not only the product composition but also sustainability: recyclable packaging, CO₂ footprint, and more. Additionally, EU regulations (e.g., Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation) are becoming stricter. We help evaluate how your product can meet these aspects or help find arguments that resonate with European ecological expectations.
Is it necessary to have a physical representative in Europe?
Yes, in many cases, it is necessary to have a Responsible Person in the EU, as required by Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 (for cosmetics) and other regulations. A representative is also required in the UK. GTM Europe can act as your official representative in the UK and EU territories
Market Entry Process & Strategy
More Than Just Information – Practical Solutions
Official institutions provide only legal texts or market data, but we go further. We offer insights, personalized recommendations, and clear action plans to help you navigate the process effectively.
Is separate registration required for each country?
In some cases – yes. For cosmetics, registration in the CPNP portal is sufficient for the entire EU. However, food supplements often need to be notified or registered separately in each country. We assess your specific situation and handle the necessary processes accordingly.
How to determine the most suitable product price for the European market?
It depends on production costs, competitor pricing, market expectations, consumer habits, product uniqueness and composition, as well as distribution channel margins. We help conduct competitive analysis and develop the most suitable pricing strategy for each country and each product.
How long does it take to enter the market?
It depends on the product type, target market, and level of preparation. On average:
– Document preparation: 2–4 weeks
– Registration: 4–12 weeks
– Localization and packaging adaptation: 2–6 weeks
The full process can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months. More precise timelines are provided after evaluating the product composition and the manufacturer’s flexibility and ability to adapt the formula if needed to meet EU requirements.
– Document preparation: 2–4 weeks
– Registration: 4–12 weeks
– Localization and packaging adaptation: 2–6 weeks
The full process can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months. More precise timelines are provided after evaluating the product composition and the manufacturer’s flexibility and ability to adapt the formula if needed to meet EU requirements.
Which country should I start selling in within Europe?
It depends on the product type, competitive landscape, and your strategic goals. For example, attractive entry markets for food supplements include the UK and Germany (large markets), Poland (high growth potential), and the Netherlands (fast registration process). We conduct market analysis and help you choose the optimal starting point.
Product Labeling, Packaging & Identity
Can packaging with Japanese labelling be used?
No. All products placed on the EU market must have labels that comply with local language and legal requirements. Japanese cannot be the sole language used on the packaging. We assist in localising labels and ensuring they are fully compliant with relevant regulations.
Can any product name be used?
No. The product name must not be misleading and must comply with EU regulations and national requirements. Certain terms (e.g., "medicinal", "treatment", or health claims) may be restricted or prohibited depending on the product category. We help evaluate and adapt product names to ensure compliance in each target market.
Can brand identity be preserved?
Yes. Our team helps maintain your brand’s existing story and values while localizing communication style and design elements. We develop market-specific positioning tailored to European audiences, preserving the original message but adapting it to be clear and relevant for local consumers.
Will the packaging need to be changed?
Often, yes. Packaging labelling must comply with all EU requirements, including language, symbols, ingredient listings, batch numbers, and expiration dates. Cultural differences are also taken into account. We help review, adapt, or create new layouts that best align with European consumer expectations and needs, enabling greater growth potential.
Sales & Distribution Channels
Can products be sold online only in Europe?
Yes, but even online sales must comply with the same regulations as physical retail: the product must be properly registered, correctly labelled, and supported by valid documentation. Selling on platforms like Amazon or Notino also requires full compliance with EU legislation.
Do you help with uploading products to e-commerce platforms?
Yes. We work with major European e-commerce platforms, including Amazon, Notino, Allegro, Douglas, and others. We ensure not only the technical listing of your product but also its search optimization (SEO), translation, and adaptation of visual materials. We also assist in complying with each platform’s specific rules, which often vary between countries.
Does GTM Europe handle import and logistics?
Yes. Our logistics specialists manage the import process into the EU and the UK, handle all necessary documentation, assist in obtaining permits for each product batch, and communicate with customs and storage partners. We offer both centralized warehousing and tailored solutions based on market needs.
Do you also work with B2B clients (wholesale)?
Yes, we have an active wholesale team working with distributors, pharmacy chains, wellness stores, and e-commerce operators across Europe. Our network allows us to introduce new products to the market quickly and efficiently—not just list them, but ensure they reach the end customer. We have strong positions in Germany, France, Poland, and the Baltic countries.
Can products be held at customs?
Yes, if proper documentation is missing or the product is deemed non-compliant with import requirements. GTM Europe helps ensure that every batch has all necessary approvals, including product registration, certificates, and batch authorizations. This minimizes the risk of goods being held or returned by customs.
Marketing & Communication
Can you localize content into multiple languages?
Yes. We provide professional localization services, including translation of product descriptions, instructions, and marketing materials into major European languages—such as English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and others. All translations are done with attention to market specifics and legal requirements to ensure both accuracy and cultural relevance.
Do you help find local partners?
Yes. We have a wide network of contacts across the EU—from independent distributors to retail chains. Based on your product category, pricing level, and strategy, we help identify suitable partners, arrange meetings, prepare for negotiations, and provide relevant market analysis.
Do you assist with trade show participation?
Yes. We offer comprehensive support—from selecting the right trade show, handling registration, logistics, booth design, and material preparation to representing your brand during the event. We also collect leads, outline next steps, and provide a full post-event report.
Do you provide marketing services?
Yes. Our EMC-certified marketing experts develop tailored strategies based on consumer behavior, competitive landscape, and positioning opportunities. We run both B2B and B2C campaigns across various EU countries.
Do you help manage social media?
Yes. We create and manage accounts, prepare visuals and copy, plan and launch campaigns, and track performance. Platforms include Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok. We also offer influencer marketing and UGC (user-generated content) services—helping you select the most suitable influencers for your specific product.
Can you translate and localize product descriptions?
Yes, we have professional translators and localization specialists who work with the languages of EU countries. Product descriptions are adapted not only linguistically but also culturally—this is especially important in the cosmetics and health sectors, where emotional context strongly influences consumer decisions.
Do you help create new brands or sub-brands for Europe?
Yes. Some clients choose to create a new brand or a local "private label" to better meet European consumer expectations. We assist with brand positioning, visual identity, trademark checks, brand story creation, and communication strategy.
Cooperation with GTM Europe
What are the main advantages of GTM Europe?
Specialization in food supplements and cosmetics only.
A professional and experienced team.
Many years of experience working with Japanese manufacturers.
Integrated services from registration to sales.
Strong network of partners.
Ability to act quickly, efficiently, and locally.
Integration of AI solutions: analysis, forecasts, regulatory monitoring.
A professional and experienced team.
Many years of experience working with Japanese manufacturers.
Integrated services from registration to sales.
Strong network of partners.
Ability to act quickly, efficiently, and locally.
Integration of AI solutions: analysis, forecasts, regulatory monitoring.
How to start the collaboration?
The first step is to contact us and discuss your product type, target markets, and desired launch timeline. We will then conduct a preliminary analysis, propose an action plan, and provide a personalized offer. You can submit inquiries via our website, email, or by booking a consultation through our calendar.
Does GTM Europe also provide consulting services in Japan?
Yes. Our experts do not speak Japanese, but with the help of translators, they can conduct remote (ONLINE) consultations in Japanese or collaborate with your local partners. We are also ready to participate in trade fairs in Japan, meet with manufacturers, and even organize internal training sessions for your team on EU requirements.