If you are an enterprise operating in the construction materials sector and targeting the European market, CE marking is a mandatory factor that cannot be omitted. What is CE marking, and why is it so important in the process of exporting to the EU?

1. What is CE marking?

CE marking (also referred to as the CE mark) is an abbreviation of the French term Conformité Européenne, meaning “European conformity”. This marking indicates that a product meets the requirements for safety, health, environmental protection, and consumer protection in accordance with regulations of the European Union (EU).

CE marking is not a quality certification mark, but a declaration of legal conformity. It is a necessary condition for products to be permitted to circulate freely within the EU market and the European Economic Area (EEA).

2. CE marking and the construction materials sector

In the construction materials sector, CE marking is mandatory for products included in the scope defined by the EU Construction Products Regulation (CPR). This includes:

  • Cement, concrete

  • Bricks, tiles, and stone cladding

  • Construction steel

  • Insulation panels, construction glass, etc.

3. Why construction materials enterprises need CE marking to export to the EU

3.1 Mandatory legal requirement

Most construction materials products, such as bricks, tiles, cement, steel, glass, etc., fall within the scope of CE directives. To export to the EU, enterprises must demonstrate that their products comply with the requirements of these directives by obtaining CE marking.

3.2 Increased credibility with European partners

CE marking not only allows products to circulate on the EU market but also builds trust among consumers, thereby enhancing the enterprise’s credibility and competitiveness.

Lawful market expansion

Once CE marking is obtained, enterprises may export freely not only within the EU but also to countries within the EEA, such as Norway, Iceland, and Switzerland, without the need for additional certification.

How to obtain CE marking

For construction materials products to bear CE marking, enterprises need to implement the following steps:

  • The enterprise shall identify the CE directives applicable to its products.

  • Product testing shall be conducted at accredited laboratories, or self-assessment may be performed if eligible.

  • Technical documentation demonstrating conformity with directive requirements shall be prepared.

  • CE marking certification shall be registered with a recognized certification body (if required).

  • The CE mark shall be affixed to the product.

Conclusion

CE marking is an essential “technical passport” for construction materials enterprises seeking to access the EU market. Investment in this certification not only ensures legal compliance but also enables sustainable export opportunities and brand development in the international market.

Are you a construction materials enterprise seeking to obtain CE marking? Contact us for comprehensive consultancy services from A to Z, including standards assessment, testing, certification, and documentation guidance in accordance with EU requirements.

STI Viet Nam Co., Ltd.

Address: Room 8A, 8th floor, Song Da mixed-use building, 131 Tran Phu, Ha Dong, Ha Noi

Telephone: 0989.770.795

Email: contact@stivina.com

STI Viet Nam