In 2012, a total number of 2 278 measures was taken against dangerous non-food products on the European markets. Harmful products identified by Member States were reported in the EU Rapid Information System (RAPEX). RAPEX is a rapid alert system between Member States and the Commission on non-food products. The main task of the system is to distribute information on potentially dangerous products to all Member States and prevent these products from being distributed to European customers.

The biggest risks typically poses clothing, textile products and fashion items (34%), toys (19%) and electronical appliances and equipment (11%). The most frequent dangers include chemical risks, risk of strangulation and risk of injury. Majority of potentially harmful products is imported from China and Hong Kong (58%), EU and EEA countries come second (17%).

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