A Comprehensive Analysis of EN 18031 Certification and Related Rules for Export to the European Union

In the trade of radio equipment exported to the European Union, EN 18031 certification is becoming a key "threshold". From August 1, 2025, the new EU regulations require that all radio equipment exported to the EU must be certified by EN 18031. This certification is derived from the EU Authorization Regulation (EU) 2022/30, which incorporates cybersecurity requirements into the compliance framework of the Radio Equipment Directive (RED). The supporting standard EN 18031 series was subsequently released. Equipment that has not passed the certification will be prohibited from entering the EU market.

The impact of not obtaining EN 18031 certification cannot be underestimated. The direct consequence is that the equipment cannot be sold in the EU market. Enterprises will also face problems such as damaged brand reputation and decreased consumer trust. They may even be complained about and attacked by competitors in the same industry, missing market opportunities. Network security certification has become a necessary "pass" for products to enter the EU market.

The relationship between CE RED and network security certification is not completely bound. Although it is more recommended to handle them together as the process is smoother and more convenient, they can also be done separately when actual needs are different. It is also compliant to have a laboratory with the ability to test network security technology conduct independent testing and issue reports. Enterprises can flexibly choose the certification method that suits their own situation.

For products that have passed the CE certification and wish to continue entering the EU market, it is also necessary to pay attention to supplementing the cybersecurity report. The EU has become increasingly strict in its requirements for product cybersecurity. Even if one has previously obtained the CE, they still need to comply with the new regulations when entering the market later. It is recommended to find a laboratory with technical capabilities and qualifications to make up for the tests to meet the market access conditions of the EU.

Radio equipment enterprises exporting to the European Union need to accurately grasp the EN 18031 certification and related rules, plan the certification process in advance, attach importance to network security compliance, so as to gain a firm foothold in the EU market, avoid trade risks, seize market opportunities, and achieve sustainable overseas business expansion.