The government wants to introduce new obligations for producers. Penalties up to PLN 40,000 zloty
If the changes to the Act come into force, producers will, among others: washing machines, dishwashers, vacuum cleaners and mobile phones will be obliged to repair their damaged products. Its introduction is related to the EU Right to Repair (R@R) directive. The draft changes were included in the list of legislative works of the Council of Ministers. According to “DGP”, fines for non-compliance with the new regulations will amount to PLN 20,000. PLN, and in the case of recidivism – up to PLN 40,000. zloty.
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The customer will have the right to choose
The main assumption of the bill is that the customer has a choice and can decide to repair broken equipment instead of replacing it. It's also about avoiding getting rid of used devices too quickly. As a result, this may reduce the cost of living for consumers, who will be less likely to buy new goods. There is also hope that such a regulation will contribute to environmental protection.
New obligations will be imposed on both manufacturers and sellers of household appliances, mobile phones, refrigeration appliances, electronic displays, scooters, electric bicycles, etc. The government has time to introduce changes to the act only until July 31, 2026.
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The information contained in the list of government legislative works quoted by “DGP” shows that sellers and manufacturers will have to inform customers about their right to choose between repair or replacement. They will also be obliged to inform about the conditions of repair.
The new regulations will also indicate that such products should be designed and manufactured in such a way as not to hinder their repair and replacement of spare parts.
The Trade Inspection will be responsible primarily for monitoring whether the new regulations are being complied with, and it will be able to impose fines for irregularities.
