The grey area is closed: how labeling changed import rules in 2025

The grey area is closed: how labeling changed import rules in 2025
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The Honest Mark digital labeling system has changed the import rules. Now it is impossible to legally sell products without documents and correct codes. We tell you how to set up the process correctly.

Since September 2025, the rules of the game in the import market have changed significantly. The full entry into force of digital labeling of goods has made it impossible for gray turnover of products, especially in the light industry. Companies that previously relied on bypass schemes are faced with the urgent need to restructure their processes.

Labeling is now impossible without first obtaining conformity documents — declarations and certificates according to the requirements of the EAEU TR. These documents are the basis for ordering Data Matrix codes and legally putting products into circulation.

The key changes relate to three levels: customs, marketplaces and the "Fair Sign". The absence or errors in the codes now become the reason for the blocking of imports and the termination of sales on the sites. Products without correct labeling simply do not pass moderation or control.

The main problems of the companies are the following errors: lack of conformity documents, incorrect product cards in the national catalog, unreadable or incorrectly printed labels, errors in code aggregation, as well as incorrect withdrawal from circulation through the cashier. There are especially frequent cases when codes are written off for "own needs", and the goods physically leave the wholesale market — which causes risks of blockages and claims.

To avoid problems, it is recommended to follow a proven step-by-step scheme.:
1. Obtaining a declaration or certificate of conformity.
2. Registration in the Honest Sign system.
3. The organization of EDI and the formation of UPD with codes.
4. The establishment of correct cards in the national catalog.
5. Order and print Data Matrix codes.
6. Check labels for readability.
7. Correct aggregation of packages.
8. Setting up cash registers with FFD 1.2.
9. Integration with marketplaces.
10. Regular reconciliation and revision of balances.

If you do not have your own staff to support the process, it is optimal to use outsourcing services: from registration to audits. Such services include auditing, code generation and download, employee training, and documentation correctness control.

Important: even if the company has received the codes but has not issued the compliance documents, the sale of the product will be stopped. Conversely, the correct structure of all stages allows not only to comply with the law, but also to avoid reputational and financial risks.

Bottom line: labeling is not just a sticker on a product, but a whole digital control system. And since 2025, it has become a key barrier to illegal imports. A product without a code is an outlawed product.