Glossary

Processing contaminants that can form during vegetable-oil refining. Regulation (EU) 2023/915, amended by Regulation (EU) 2026/1825, sets maximum levels for specified oils and fats; its entries in point 5.3.1 exclude virgin olive oils.

Tin, tantalum, tungsten and gold. Regulation (EU) 2017/821 sets supply-chain due-diligence rules for EU importers of specified minerals and metals, with scope determined by Annex I product codes, annual import-volume thresholds and exemptions.

A certificate showing which country's social security legislation applies under the EU coordination rules, including for eligible posted workers. Its procedural basis is Article 19(2) of Regulation (EC) No 987/2009.

A European Commission decision under Article 45 of Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (GDPR) recognising adequate protection of personal data in a non-EU country, territory, specified sector or international organisation. Transfers within its scope do not need an additional transfer mechanism.

International agreement on the carriage of dangerous goods by road. The word "European" was removed from its title in 2021.

AI uses listed in Annex III to Regulation (EU) 2024/1689, covering areas such as employment, education and essential services. High-risk classification also depends on Article 6, including its exceptions.

The EU framework for deploying alternative-fuel recharging and refuelling infrastructure, including common targets and technical specifications, established by Regulation (EU) 2023/1804.

The EU framework for authorising and supervising managers of alternative investment funds, established by Directive 2011/61/EU. Directive (EU) 2024/927 amends its rules on matters including delegation, liquidity management and loan origination.

EU measures against money laundering and terrorist financing. Directive (EU) 2015/849 remains part of the current framework, while Regulation (EU) 2024/1624 and Directive (EU) 2024/1640 introduce a replacement framework in stages.

The EU framework for preventing and controlling animal diseases transmissible to animals or humans, established by Regulation (EU) 2016/429.

The value of recurring revenue normalised to a one-year period, commonly used by subscription-based businesses to measure growth.

The framework of laws and procedures designed to prevent criminals from disguising illegally obtained funds as legitimate income.

Regulation (EU) 2024/1624 on anti-money laundering. It applies in stages, generally from 10 July 2027.

Directive (EU) 2016/1164, as amended, setting EU rules on interest deductibility, controlled foreign companies and hybrid mismatches.

The EU framework for preventing trafficking in human beings, prosecuting offences and protecting victims, established by Directive 2011/36/EU and amended by Directive (EU) 2024/1712.

A certificate authenticating the origin of a public document for use in another contracting state under the 1961 Hague Apostille Convention. It replaces legalisation where that Convention applies.

A person or business carrying on specified regulated activities under the responsibility of an authorised principal firm in the UK appointed-representative regime.

Water and sewerage utilities: drinking-water supply and wastewater or sewerage operators.

Waste management: collection, treatment, recovery, and disposal (NACE 38 activities).

Remediation and clean-up: site remediation including contaminated land (NACE 39).

Carriers: road, air, sea, or rail transport of goods or people.

Logistics: warehousing, freight forwarding, customs, and supply-chain services.

Postal and courier services.

Platforms and intermediation: digital platforms matching freight or passengers with carriers.

Regulated professional services: law, accounting, audit, tax, and veterinary practice.

Management consultancy and head-office activities.

Architecture, engineering, and technical testing services.

Scientific research and development.

Creative, marketing, and specialised professional services.

Rental and leasing of equipment, vehicles, or other assets.

Employment activities: recruitment, placement, and temporary staffing.

Travel and tourism services.

Security and investigation services.

Building and landscape services: cleaning, facilities management, and landscaping.

Office and business support: administration, call centres, and business process outsourcing.

Licensed clinical care: doctor-led, dentist-led, or hospital-integrated services.

Health technology: medical devices, in vitro diagnostics, software as a medical device, and health AI.

Care services: residential and social care.

Other regulated health activities.

Membership organisations: associations, unions, and professional bodies.

Repair services for goods and equipment.

Personal services: hairdressing, beauty, and wellbeing.

Technology using machine-based systems to infer outputs such as predictions, content, recommendations or decisions from inputs. Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 defines an AI system and establishes the EU regulatory framework.

Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 establishes an EU framework for artificial intelligence, with rules varying by use and risk. Application is phased: general application from 2 August 2026, with key high-risk provisions from 2 December 2027 and 2 August 2028.

The Italian national association representing construction enterprises. It is a trade association, not a regulator.

A readiness band indicating the capability does not yet meet baseline expectations for EU market entry. Material gaps exist that need focused attention. The capability is not a full blocker but presents meaningful risk if left unaddressed.

EU rules on equipment and protective systems for potentially explosive atmospheres under Directive 2014/34/EU, and on workers exposed to explosive atmospheres under Directive 1999/92/EC.

Directive 2010/13/EU on audiovisual media services, as amended.

A trusted-trader customs status provided for in Article 38 of the Union Customs Code.

A person or organisation established in the EU with a written mandate from a manufacturer to perform specified regulatory tasks on its behalf. The general market-surveillance definition appears in Regulation (EU) 2019/1020.

EU authority established by Regulation (EU) 2024/1620. It coordinates supervision and will directly supervise selected financial entities following a phased selection process.

A business model in which a bank provides banking services through a non-bank partner, often using software interfaces. The arrangement does not itself determine whether the partner has a separate authorisation.

Technical documents published by the EU describing Best Available Techniques for each industrial sector under Directive 2010/75/EU. BAT conclusions derived from these documents provide the reference for permit conditions.

A defined quantity of a product made or processed together under specified conditions. The identification and traceability rules associated with a batch depend on the product sector.

A plan covering how an organisation continues essential operations and restores disrupted systems or services.

A natural person who ultimately owns or controls a customer, or on whose behalf a transaction is conducted. Directive (EU) 2015/849 defines the term for anti-money-laundering purposes, with revised rules in Regulation (EU) 2024/1624.

The most effective and advanced technologies and practices for preventing or reducing emissions, used as the benchmark for permit conditions under Directive 2010/75/EU (IED).

Internal data-protection rules approved by a competent supervisory authority for transfers within a corporate group or group of enterprises engaged in joint economic activity. Their EU legal basis is Article 47 of Regulation (EU) 2016/679.

A readiness band indicating fundamental gaps that would prevent or significantly delay EU market entry. Capabilities at this level require immediate action before proceeding. Corresponds to an internal severity classification of 'gate' (score below 25).

An intergovernmental process for cooperation on higher-education qualifications, recognition and quality assurance across the European Higher Education Area. It began with the 1999 Bologna Declaration.

An establishment of a company that operates without forming a separate legal entity. It is distinct from a subsidiary, which is a separate company.

A private food safety certification standard owned by BRCGS (part of LGC), among the GFSI-recognised programmes. Often requested by retailers; not an EU legal obligation.

A method of managing digital information about buildings and infrastructure throughout their life cycle. The ISO 19650 series provides standards for information management using building information modelling.

The rate at which a business uses cash over a stated period. Gross burn measures cash spending, while net burn takes cash inflows into account.

Planning and preparation so that critical business functions continue during and after a disaster or disruption.

A documented plan describing how an organisation will continue operating during and after a significant disruption, including backup procedures and recovery steps.

The practice of contracting specific business operations or processes to an external provider.

Commercial transactions or business conducted between two businesses, rather than between a business and individual consumers.

Commercial transactions between a business and individual consumers.

One of the seven independent dimensions of EU market readiness assessed by the AFT Framework. Each capability is scored on its own diagnostic axis and is not substitutable for another. Strength in one capability does not cancel out a critical gap in another.

Funds used to acquire or improve long-lived assets, such as property, equipment or technology infrastructure.

Directive (EU) 2024/1619, amending Directive 2013/36/EU on prudential rules for credit institutions. It introduces requirements for non-EU credit institutions to establish and authorise a branch for specified banking activities, subject to exceptions.

The 2024 revision of EU prudential capital rules for credit institutions, Regulation (EU) 2024/1623, implementing the final Basel III reforms. It applies in stages from 2025, with the output floor fully phased in by 2030.

Regulation (EU) 2023/956 establishing a carbon border adjustment mechanism. The definitive period began on 1 January 2026, with annual declarations.

A marking by which the manufacturer indicates conformity with the applicable EU harmonisation legislation that provides for CE marking, as defined in Regulation (EC) No 765/2008.

A laboratory document reporting the test results for a specific product batch against stated specifications.

The professional body for waste and resource management professionals, primarily in the UK and Ireland.

The Uniform Rules concerning the Contract of International Carriage of Goods by Rail, Appendix B to the COTIF Convention; they govern liability in international rail freight.

Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 on the classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures.

A video-surveillance system that sends images to a limited set of displays or recording systems. Recordings involving identifiable people can contain personal data under Regulation (EU) 2016/679.

The Convention on the Contract for the International Carriage of Goods by Road, a UNECE convention governing liability and documentation for international road freight transport.

Substances that are carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic to reproduction, classified under Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 (CLP), Annex I, sections 3.5 to 3.7.

Contract packing: a third party packs or bottles a product on behalf of the brand owner.

The reading of the AFT Framework across a group of firms, producing programme-level insights for institutions, chambers and programme operators.

An organisation whose main purpose is managing copyright or related rights collectively for multiple rights holders. Under Directive 2014/26/EU, it is owned or controlled by its members, organised on a not-for-profit basis, or both.

The system by which collective management organisations license content and collect royalties on behalf of rights holders, covered by Directive 2014/26/EU.

The EU framework for collective management of copyright and related rights, including multi-territorial licensing of online rights in musical works, established by Directive 2014/26/EU.

The EU's goods classification, established by Regulation (EEC) No 2658/87. Each product falls under an eight-digit CN code, which helps determine customs duties and applicable trade measures.

The EU's classification system for public procurement, established by Regulation (EC) No 2195/2002. CPV codes identify the subject of contracts published on TED.

Your initial educated assumption about which EU regulations apply to your business and what actions are needed. A starting point to be validated with legal experts before finalizing your compliance pathway.

A structured plan identifying which regulations apply to your business and the steps needed to meet each requirement. Includes gap assessment, timeline, responsible parties, and evidence documentation.

National team coordinating cybersecurity incident response under the NIS2 Directive (EU) 2022/2555. CSIRTs receive incident notifications from essential and important entities and coordinate cross-border response.

A measure of evidence strength behind each capability assessment, ranging from limited (no consolidated proof) to operationalised (documented and repeatable process). Higher confidence means the assessment carries greater reliability.

Under Regulation (EC) No 765/2008, the process demonstrating whether specified requirements relating to a product, process, service, system, person or body have been fulfilled.

A standardised cloud security assessment questionnaire published by the Cloud Security Alliance. It is a private questionnaire, not an EU legal standard.

The name of Great Britain's CDM Regulations 2015 on construction health and safety. The EU construction-site framework is a separate instrument, Directive 92/57/EEC.

The EU framework for marketing construction products under Regulation (EU) 2024/3110. It applies in stages, with transitional provisions preserving parts of Regulation (EU) No 305/2011.

Directive 2011/83/EU providing consumer protection rules for distance and off-premises contracts, including cancellation rights and pre-contractual information requirements.

Insurance cover for specified physical loss or damage associated with construction works, according to the policy terms.

The completion of a defined action, such as a purchase or enquiry. Conversion rate is the proportion of a specified audience that completes that action.

Directive (EU) 2024/1760 on corporate sustainability due diligence, amended by Directive (EU) 2026/470. Transposition is due by 26 July 2028 and application starts on 26 July 2029.

Directive (EU) 2022/2464 on sustainability reporting, amended by Directive (EU) 2026/470. Revised EU undertaking and group thresholds exceed 1 000 employees and EUR 450 million net turnover; non-EU groups have separate rules, and implementation and transitional arrangements affect timing.

Tax levied on the profits of incorporated businesses. Rates and rules vary by EU member state.

Directive (EU) 2018/822, which establishes reporting and information-exchange rules for cross-border arrangements meeting specified hallmarks. It is a disclosure regime, not a test validating a tax structure.

Regulation (EU) 2026/1030, which establishes a common framework for calculating greenhouse gas emissions from transport services, based on EN ISO 14083. It entered into force on 1 June 2026, with application phased in later.

The EU judicial institution that interprets EU law and reviews its application. It comprises the Court of Justice and the General Court.

Directive (EU) 2022/2557 on the resilience of critical entities.

Designation under DORA, Regulation (EU) 2022/2554, of ICT providers to financial entities, based on the criteria in Article 31. Designated providers are subject to oversight by a European Supervisory Authority (ESA) designated as Lead Overseer.

Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 on critical raw materials.

Involving transactions, activities or relationships across national borders. The legal treatment depends on the activity and the countries involved.

EU rules on the introduction and import of cultural goods under Regulation (EU) 2019/880, including restrictions on unlawfully exported goods and documentation for specified categories. The provisions apply in stages.

A measure of the cost of acquiring customers, usually calculated by dividing relevant acquisition spending by customers acquired during a stated period. The included costs and timing depend on the calculation method.

The process of identifying and verifying customers, understanding their business and assessing money-laundering risk, provided for in Directive (EU) 2015/849.

Software systems and business processes for managing a company's interactions with current and potential customers, including sales pipelines and customer data.

The completion of customs formalities for goods entering, leaving or moving under a customs procedure. Regulation (EU) No 952/2013 provides the EU framework, including declarations, controls and release of goods.

A charge on imported goods under the customs tariff. Under Regulation (EU) No 952/2013, the amount depends on tariff classification, customs value or quantity, origin and any applicable tariff measures.

Regulation (EU) 2024/2847 setting horizontal cybersecurity requirements for products with digital elements. It applies in stages, with general application from 11 December 2027.

Any operation performed on personal data, such as collecting, storing, consulting, sharing or deleting it. Article 4(2) of Regulation (EU) 2016/679 defines processing to include both automated and non-automated operations.

A contract or other binding legal act under Article 28 of the GDPR, Regulation (EU) 2016/679, setting the terms on which a processor handles personal data for a controller.

A formal assessment provided for in GDPR Article 35, carried out before processing personal data that is likely to result in a high risk to individuals.

An officer designated under Articles 37 to 39 of the GDPR, Regulation (EU) 2016/679.

A request from an individual to access the personal data an organisation holds about them, under Article 15 of the GDPR, Regulation (EU) 2016/679.

The entity-level output of an AFT EU Market Readiness assessment, combining a verdict, capability profile, priority blockers and evidence roadmap.

A document stating that a product meets the applicable EU harmonisation legislation, drawn up under the manufacturer's responsibility. Its content and any role for an authorised representative depend on the relevant product legislation.

An ICC Incoterms 2020 rule under which the seller delivers at the named destination on the arriving vehicle, ready for unloading. Import clearance and import duties are allocated to the buyer.

An ICC Incoterms 2020 rule under which the seller delivers at the named destination, cleared for import and ready for unloading. The seller bears the allocated transport risks and costs, including import duties and applicable taxes.

EU rules for contestable and fair digital markets where designated gatekeepers operate, established by Regulation (EU) 2022/1925.

Regulation (EU) 2022/2554, applying to financial entities from 17 January 2025. It sets rules on ICT risk management, incident reporting, resilience testing and oversight of third-party providers.

A digital record containing the product information specified by the relevant EU product rules. Under Regulation (EU) 2024/1781, its content and introduction depend on product-specific measures.

Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 setting content moderation, transparency and due diligence obligations for online platforms and other intermediary services.

EU policy framework harmonising digital rules, including the Copyright DSM Directive (2019/790) on online content and licensing.

EU copyright rules for the digital environment under Directive (EU) 2019/790. They address teaching uses, press publishers' rights and online content-sharing services, with exceptions and safeguards.

Directive (EU) 2021/514 on administrative cooperation in taxation for digital platforms.

The EU framework for recognising professional qualifications for regulated professions under Directive 2005/36/EC. It includes automatic-recognition routes, a general system and the European Professional Card procedure for specified professions.

The process of restoring IT systems and data after a disruption, typically through backups, failover systems and documented recovery procedures.

The activities and channels through which goods or services reach customers, including wholesalers, retailers and other intermediaries.

Entity responsible for operating local electricity or gas distribution networks. The electricity definition is in Directive (EU) 2019/944.

Principle under the EU Taxonomy Regulation (EU) 2020/852: an economic activity that contributes substantially to one environmental objective does not significantly harm the others. It is applied through technical screening criteria.

An assessment of how planned personal-data processing may affect people's rights and freedoms, described in Article 35 of Regulation (EU) 2016/679.

A qualification for drivers covered by Directive (EU) 2022/2561, whose periodic training is 35 hours every five years. It is distinct from the transport manager qualification under Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009.

A structured investigation or assessment of relevant risks, facts and impacts. Its meaning varies between transactions, supplier checks and specific legal due-diligence frameworks.

A voluntary EU environmental management and registration scheme under Regulation (EC) No 1221/2009. It goes beyond ISO 14001 and includes verified public reporting on environmental performance.

Regulation (EU) 2024/1781 on the ecodesign of sustainable products. It is a framework that provides for the digital product passport, with product-specific acts setting the requirements and dates.

Under Regulation (EU) 2019/1020, the manufacturer, authorised representative, importer, distributor, fulfilment service provider or any other person subject to obligations for the manufacture, supply or putting into service of products under EU harmonisation legislation. Not to be confused with Authorised Economic Operator, a customs status.

EU rules limiting electromagnetic disturbance from equipment and protecting equipment against such disturbance, established by Directive 2014/30/EU.

A legal person authorised to issue electronic money under Directive 2009/110/EC. Electronic money represents stored monetary value issued in exchange for funds and accepted by persons other than its issuer.

EU consumer-protection rules on environmental claims, sustainability labels and product information under Directive (EU) 2024/825. National implementing measures apply from 27 September 2026.

EU rules on vehicles at the end of their life under Directive 2000/53/EC. Regulation (EU) 2026/1738 introduces a replacement framework for vehicle circularity and waste management, applying in stages.

An energy performance rating document for a building or building unit under the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, Directive (EU) 2024/1275. The recast directive sets a common A to G framework, with specified exceptions and transitional arrangements.

Directive (EU) 2024/1275 (recast), the EU framework for building energy performance. It provides for minimum energy performance standards, zero-emission buildings from 2028 for new buildings owned by public bodies and from 2030 for all new buildings, and renovation of worst-performing buildings.

Additional customer due diligence measures for situations identified as higher risk under EU anti-money-laundering rules (Directive (EU) 2015/849).

An assessment of the likely significant environmental effects of certain projects, under Directive 2011/92/EU.

Directive 2004/35/EC, which establishes a polluter-pays framework for preventing and remedying specified environmental damage. It encourages financial security instruments, and national arrangements vary.

The environmental, social and governance dimensions used to describe sustainability matters, including in corporate reporting.

A person or organisation established in the EU with a written mandate from a manufacturer to perform specified regulatory tasks. The role varies by product legislation, including Regulation (EU) 2017/745 and Regulation (EU) 2017/746.

The EU framework for batteries and waste batteries under Regulation (EU) 2023/1542, covering sustainability, safety, information and waste management. It applies in stages, including postponed supply-chain due-diligence provisions.

Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 on deforestation-free products, amended by Regulation (EU) 2025/2650. Main provisions apply from 30 December 2026; a 30 June 2027 deferral covers qualifying operators established by 31 December 2024, with an exception for products covered by the EU Timber Regulation.

The European Commission's online portal for finding and managing participating EU funding and procurement opportunities, including organisation registration, submissions and project administration.

The EU framework for personal-data processing by EU institutions, bodies, offices and agencies, established by Regulation (EU) 2018/1725. It provides data-protection rights and oversight by the European Data Protection Supervisor.

The capacity of a firm to enter, operate and prove itself in the European Union single market. Assessed across seven independent capabilities, not as a single composite score.

A person established in the EU and designated in writing to represent a controller or processor for the purposes specified in Article 27 of the GDPR, Regulation (EU) 2016/679.

An EU classification framework for environmentally sustainable economic activities, established by Regulation (EU) 2020/852. It supports specified investment disclosures and corporate sustainability reporting.

A European network of employment services helping jobseekers and employers connect across borders. Its legal framework is Regulation (EU) 2016/589.

Directive (EU) 2019/882 on accessibility requirements for products and services, applying from 28 June 2025.

An EU authority supporting consistent banking regulation and supervision, established by Regulation (EU) No 1093/2010. It develops draft technical standards for Commission adoption and issues supervisory guidelines.

The EU agency supporting the implementation of chemicals legislation, including REACH and CLP, through scientific, technical and administrative work. It was established by Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006.

A system for recording and recognising higher-education learning outcomes and workload across the European Higher Education Area. Sixty ECTS credits represent a full-time academic year or its equivalent.

The independent EU authority supervising personal-data processing by EU institutions and bodies and advising them on data protection. Its legal basis is Regulation (EU) 2018/1725.

The European database on medical devices. It records data on devices, including UDI data, while manufacturers assign the UDIs. The use of its first four modules has been compulsory since 28 May 2026.

The area comprising the EU Member States, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, linked through the EEA Agreement. The GDPR forms part of the EEA framework.

Directive (EU) 2018/1972, the EU framework for telecoms regulation, authorisation and end-user rights.

The EU-level federation representing drinking water and wastewater service operators.

Regulation (EU) 2025/327 establishes a framework for access to and use of electronic health data. Application is phased from 26 March 2027, with most secondary-use rules from 26 March 2029 and some from 2031.

An EU authority supporting consistent insurance and occupational-pensions regulation and supervision, established by Regulation (EU) No 1094/2010. It develops draft technical standards and issues guidelines and recommendations.

An interoperable environment set up by Regulation (EU) 2019/1239, linking national maritime single windows and harmonising electronic reporting for ships visiting EU ports. General application began on 15 August 2025.

Network providing information on the recognition of foreign qualifications and education systems across Europe.

The executive body of the European Patent Organisation, responsible for examining applications and granting European patents under the European Patent Convention.

An eight-level reference framework linking the qualifications systems of different EU countries, set out in Council Recommendation 2017/C 189/03. It supports cross-border comparison of qualifications, but comparison does not itself confer recognition.

The European Higher Education Area's register of quality-assurance agencies that substantially comply with the Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the European Higher Education Area.

A standardised self-declaration form under Directive 2014/24/EU, used across the EU to simplify participation in public procurement procedures. It serves as preliminary evidence in place of multiple national certificates.

The 2015 reference framework for quality assurance in European higher education, distinct from environmental/social/governance ESG. Covers internal QA, external QA, and QA agencies under the Bologna Process.

Standards adopted under the CSRD for sustainability reporting by in-scope companies, set out in Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/2772. They include cross-cutting standards (ESRS 1, ESRS 2) and topical standards on environmental, social and governance matters.

A political and economic union of 27 European member states with a single market, common regulations and shared institutions.

The EU agency for civil aviation safety. It issues Third Country Operator (TCO) authorisations for non-EU air operators.

The EU agency responsible for managing the EU trade mark and registered EU design systems, providing IP protection across all EU member states.

The EU list of standardised six-digit waste codes, set out in Decision 2000/532/EC.

The EU-level trade association representing the private waste management and resource recovery industry.

The statistical office of the European Union, responsible for publishing high-quality Europe-wide statistics and indicators. Eurostat maintains official classifications like NACE, coordinates national statistical offices, and provides the data infrastructure for EU policy-making and regulatory alignment.

Concrete, reviewable artefacts: documents, records, contracts, accounts, certifications, or operational outputs that a third party could examine and assess. A statement of intent or a self-declaration is not evidence on its own, even when it accurately describes the firm's position.

A composite indicator reflecting both readiness status and evidence quality for a given capability. It combines the assessment outcome with the strength of supporting documentation.

A methodological discipline that distinguishes what a firm claims from what it can demonstrably produce within an operationally meaningful window.

A framework under which producers bear financial or organisational responsibility, or both, for managing the waste stage of a product's life, as defined in Directive 2008/98/EC. In the EU it covers packaging, electronics, batteries and other product categories, with rules varying by member state.

The highest category of virgin olive oil under the EU marketing standards in Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013. Among other chemical and sensory criteria, its free acidity, expressed as oleic acid, is no more than 0.8 g per 100 g.

A standard for exchanging healthcare information electronically, published by HL7.

The national unit responsible for receiving and analysing suspicious transaction reports and other relevant information, and disseminating analysis results and relevant information to competent authorities, as provided for in Directive (EU) 2015/849.

Regulation (EU) 2024/573 on fluorinated greenhouse gases.

Under Regulation (EC) No 178/2002, the natural or legal persons responsible for ensuring that the requirements of food law are met within the food business under their control.

EU rules on food information provided to consumers, particularly food labelling, established by Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011.

A private food safety management certification scheme owned by Foundation FSSC, recognised by GFSI for specified versions and scopes. It is a private standard that retailers may request, not an EU legal obligation.

Work or service exacted from a person under the threat of a penalty and not offered voluntarily (ILO Convention No. 29). Regulation (EU) 2024/3015 prohibits placing or making available on the EU market, or exporting, products made with forced labour, from 14 December 2027.

Regulation (EU) 2024/3015, which prohibits placing or making available on the EU market, or exporting, products made with forced labour. It applies from 14 December 2027 and empowers designated authorities to investigate and order withdrawal.

Regulation (EU) 2022/2560 addresses distortive foreign subsidies in the internal market. It includes notification procedures for certain concentrations and public procurements involving foreign financial contributions.

Fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory: the terms on which holders of standard-essential patents commit to license them.

The complete process of receiving, processing, and delivering orders to customers. Includes inventory management, picking, packing, shipping, tracking, and handling returns.

A critical weakness threshold applied to each capability. If a capability falls below its gate floor, the assessment cannot return a Go verdict, even if other capabilities are strong. The gate floor prevents the combined readiness reading from masking a single structural gap.

Standard contractual provisions used across an organisation's contracts, covering matters such as payment, delivery, liability and termination. Their content and negotiability depend on the organisation and contract.

Regulation (EU) 2016/679 governs the processing of personal data. Its scope depends on the processing and the territorial criteria in Articles 2 and 3.

Regulation (EU) 2023/988 on general product safety. It covers consumer products, with express exclusions such as food and medicinal products.

An AI model capable of performing a wide range of distinct tasks, as defined by the AI Act, Regulation (EU) 2024/1689.

Under Regulation (EU) 2024/1143, a protected name for an agricultural product, wine or spirit drink whose qualities or reputation are linked to its origin. Protected designation of origin (PDO) and protected geographical indication (PGI) are its main forms for agricultural products.

The public search database of geographical indications protected in the EU, maintained by the EU Intellectual Property Office using official GI registers and additional information from competent authorities and producer groups.

An industry body that benchmarks and recognises food safety certification programmes; it does not issue certificates. Retailers may ask suppliers for certification under a GFSI-recognised programme, which is a buyer requirement, not an EU legal obligation.

The UN system for classifying chemicals and communicating hazard information through labels and safety data sheets.

A strategic plan for launching a product or service to market, including target customers, distribution channels, and positioning.

Quality standards for maintaining medicinal-product quality during storage and distribution. EU guidance for human medicines appears in Commission Guidelines 2013/C 343/01, based on Directive 2001/83/EC.

A quality system for organising, conducting, recording and reporting non-clinical health and environmental safety studies. The OECD Principles of Good Laboratory Practice provide an international framework.

Quality standards for consistent production and control of products. In the medicines sector, EU good manufacturing practice supports product quality and suitability for the intended use.

A WTO agreement providing reciprocal access to the public procurement covered by its parties' schedules.

A baseline element of EU market readiness whose absence is treated as non-negotiable. When a hard blocker is triggered, the verdict is Hold regardless of strength elsewhere. The principle is disclosed in the public methodology; the specific elements designated as hard blockers remain protected.

The international 6-digit product classification system maintained by the WCO, forming the basis of the EU's Combined Nomenclature.

A systematic approach to identifying and controlling food safety hazards. Article 5 of Regulation (EC) No 852/2004 provides for HACCP-based procedures for food business operators at stages after primary production and its associated operations.

The main offices or central administrative centre of an organisation where key decisions are made.

An agreement between an international organisation and its host state concerning its presence and operation there, often addressing premises, privileges and immunities. Its terms depend on the organisation and agreement.

HL7 International develops standards for exchanging, integrating and retrieving electronic health information.

The systematic evaluation of the properties, effects and impacts of health technologies, used by public health systems to make reimbursement and coverage decisions. Regulation (EU) 2021/2282 provides for joint clinical assessments at EU level, introduced in phases.

The discipline covering workplace health, occupational safety and environmental protection.

Systems that provide heating, ventilation and cooling in buildings.

A reference benchmark derived from sector characteristics (regulatory intensity, operational complexity, data exposure), used for comparison. Not a statistical average or peer benchmark.

A description of the customers or organisations a business aims to serve, using characteristics such as sector, size, activities and purchasing needs.

EU electronic system supporting the Cultural Goods Regulation (EU) 2019/880, covering import licences (Category B) and importer statements (Category C). Operational from 28 June 2025.

A VAT simplification for distance sales of imported goods in consignments with an intrinsic value not exceeding EUR 150, excluding excise goods. It allows VAT on eligible sales across EU Member States to be reported through one IOSS registration.

A commercial label for the party identified as responsible for an import transaction. In EU law, customs declarant, customs representative and product importer are distinct roles with responsibilities determined by the relevant legislation.

A medical device intended for the in vitro examination of specimens derived from the human body, such as blood tests or COVID tests, as defined in Regulation (EU) 2017/746.

Regulation (EU) 2017/746, the EU framework for in vitro diagnostic medical devices. It provides for risk-based conformity assessment in classes A, B, C and D, with broader Notified Body involvement than the prior Directive.

Computer systems used to control industrial processes, including SCADA, DCS and PLCs. They can form part of the network and information systems covered by NIS2.

Directive 2010/75/EU on industrial emissions, as amended by Directive (EU) 2024/1785.

An amendment of EU industrial-emissions rules by Directive (EU) 2024/1785, updating Directive 2010/75/EU and parts of the Landfill Directive. It changes permitting, environmental-performance and livestock provisions.

Typical regulatory and operational intensity levels (Low, Medium, High) for your industry sector, indicating common requirements and compliance expectations in the EU market.

A general term for computing, software, network and telecoms technologies.

Directive (EU) 2016/97, the EU framework for insurance and reinsurance distribution. It covers authorisation of intermediaries, conduct rules, demands-and-needs analysis and cross-border passporting.

The EU's integrated tariff, based on the Combined Nomenclature and provided for by Article 2 of Regulation (EEC) No 2658/87. The TARIC database shows the duties and trade measures applying to a given product and origin.

Legal rights protecting creations of the mind, including patents, trade marks, copyright and trade secrets.

A secure information-exchange system supporting cooperation between public authorities in implementing EU single-market rules. It is established by Regulation (EU) No 1024/2012.

ICC rules defining delivery responsibilities, costs and transfer of risk between sellers and buyers in goods contracts. Incoterms 2020 is the current edition, and the chosen rule and edition depend on the contract.

An international organisation that develops standards and conformity-assessment systems for electrical, electronic and related technologies.

A family of private certification standards; IFS Food covers food safety and quality and is among the GFSI-recognised programmes. Often requested by retailers; not an EU legal obligation.

The United Nations agency bringing together governments, employers and workers to develop labour standards and promote decent work.

An international body that publishes voluntary international standards.

Regulation (EU) 2022/1031, which allows the EU to restrict procurement market access for bidders from non-EU countries that maintain restrictive procurement practices against EU bidders. The Commission adopts measures by country and product category.

Connected physical or virtual objects that exchange data through communication networks, supporting applications such as monitoring and automation.

The international standard setting general requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories (current edition 2017).

A business arrangement where two or more parties agree to pool resources for a specific project while maintaining separate identities.

Standardised pre-contractual information document provided for by the PRIIPs Regulation (EU) No 1286/2014 for packaged retail and insurance-based investment products. It gives comparable information on costs, risks and outcomes.

Procedures for verifying the identity of clients. EU anti-money-laundering directives, including Directive (EU) 2015/849, provide for them as customer due diligence for financial institutions and designated businesses.

The total cost of bringing a product to a stated destination, typically including purchase, freight, insurance, handling and non-recoverable import charges. The included items depend on the costing basis.

Combustion plant with a total rated thermal input of 50 MW or more, subject to the scope and aggregation rules of the Industrial Emissions Directive 2010/75/EU. Permit conditions are informed by BAT conclusions.

The time between an order being placed and the goods being delivered.

A document recording an intention to pursue a transaction or agreement. Whether all or part of it is legally binding depends on its wording and the applicable law.

An estimate of the value of a customer relationship over time. Calculation methods vary and may use revenue, gross profit or contribution after specified costs.

The adaptation of a product, service or commercial approach to a particular market's language, culture, practices and relevant local conditions.

A safety measure of lost-time injuries relative to hours worked. The exact calculation basis varies from one framework to another.

EU safety rules for electrical equipment designed for use within specified voltage limits, established by Directive 2014/35/EU.

Automated exchange of information between machines or devices, with little or no direct human intervention.

Council of Europe convention (Treaty No. 215) providing the framework for combating the manipulation of sports competitions. It establishes national platforms coordinating prevention, monitoring and response to match-fixing risks.

An insurance intermediary with delegated authority from an insurer to perform agreed functions such as underwriting, issuing policies or handling claims. The role is a business arrangement, not a general exemption from authorisation or registration.

The difference between revenue and a specified measure of cost, expressed as an amount or as a proportion of revenue. Gross, operating and net margins use different cost bases.

The conditions under which a product or service can enter and be supplied in a market, including applicable trade and regulatory conditions. It is distinct from the commercial process of winning customers.

Evidence used to test assumptions about customer demand and willingness to buy. Different signals, such as interviews, trials, orders and repeat purchases, provide different strengths of evidence.

EU rules defining how certain agricultural products are categorised, labelled and presented for sale, under Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013. For olive oil, Regulation (EU) 2022/2104 sets marketing standards and Regulation (EU) 2022/2105 sets conformity-check and analysis rules.

The EU framework for specified crypto-assets, their issuers and crypto-asset service providers, established by Regulation (EU) 2023/1114. Its asset-referenced and electronic-money token provisions apply from 30 June 2024, and most remaining provisions from 30 December 2024.

The EU framework for investment services and trading venues under Directive 2014/65/EU and Regulation (EU) No 600/2014. Amendments include Directive (EU) 2024/790, Directive (EU) 2024/2811 and Regulation (EU) 2024/791.

The highest permitted concentration of a pesticide residue in or on food or feed under Regulation (EC) No 396/2005. A default of 0.01 mg/kg applies where no specific limit is set, subject to the regulation's exceptions.

Regulation (EU) 2017/745 governing the design, manufacture and distribution of medical devices in the EU.

A country that is a member of the European Union, bound by EU treaties and regulations.

Solvency II floor capital requirement for insurance and reinsurance undertakings (Directive 2009/138/EC). A breach triggers supervisory measures and a short-term restoration process, and authorisation may be withdrawn under the specified conditions.

Minimum energy performance requirements defined under the relevant building or product rules. Under the recast EPBD, Directive (EU) 2024/1275, non-residential standards are distinct from national residential-stock renovation trajectories.

A version of a product with just enough features to satisfy early customers and provide feedback for future development.

Product functions powered by machine learning, a field of computing in which systems learn patterns from data.

A mobile-service provider using another operator's radio-access network. It may operate some other network systems itself.

A designated role concerned with money-laundering reporting and related compliance arrangements. Its precise duties depend on the applicable framework.

The process of monitoring, reporting and verifying greenhouse-gas emissions. In the EU it is used under the Emissions Trading System and, for maritime transport, under Regulation (EU) 2015/757.

Recurring revenue from subscriptions or other recurring contracts, normalised to a monthly amount. It is a business metric rather than a guarantee of future receipts.

A competition-law exemption for specified motor-vehicle repair, maintenance and spare-parts agreements under Regulation (EU) No 461/2010, as amended by Regulation (EU) 2023/822. Its current expiry date is 31 May 2028.

An authentication method using two or more different types of factor, such as knowledge, possession or a personal characteristic, to confirm an identity.

An EU principle supporting market access for goods lawfully marketed in another Member State where rules are not fully harmonised. Regulation (EU) 2019/515 sets procedures and safeguards, while justified and proportionate restrictions remain possible.

The EU infrastructure for cross-border exchange of electronic health data, already used for patient summaries and ePrescriptions. Regulation (EU) 2025/327 extends it in stages to further categories, including images and laboratory results.

A two-digit level in the EU statistical classification of economic activities. In NACE Rev. 2.1, Division 62 covers computer programming, consultancy and related activities within Section K.

The updated EU statistical classification of economic activities under Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006, as amended by Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/137. It has 22 sections and 87 divisions, with statistical implementation in stages from reference year 2025.

A lettered category at the broadest level of the EU statistical classification of economic activities. NACE Rev. 2.1 has 22 sections, A to V, including Section C for manufacturing and Section L for financial and insurance activities.

National information centres that advise on academic qualifications and recognition. ENIC is the European Network of Information Centres, while NARIC is the network of National Academic Recognition Information Centres.

National centres providing advice on the academic recognition of foreign qualifications. Present in each EU member state.

A national body responsible for implementing anti-doping rules and programmes within its authority, including testing, education and results management.

A Member State authority responsible for authorising and supervising regulated activities in that jurisdiction.

A Member State's national system for classifying qualifications by level of learning, referenced to the European Qualifications Framework (EQF).

A Member State authority designated to oversee electronic communications networks and services under Directive (EU) 2018/1972 (EECC).

NATO procurement agency providing centralised acquisition and logistics support.

A readiness band indicating the capability is progressing but has not yet reached the expected baseline. Improvement is recommended but the gap is not blocking market entry.

A customer loyalty metric that measures how likely customers are to recommend a company's products or services to others.

Directive (EU) 2022/2555, which sets cybersecurity risk management and incident reporting rules for essential and important entities.

The electronic system used for Union and common transit procedures.

The EU statistical classification of economic activities, established by Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006. Its revised version, NACE Rev. 2.1, is introduced by Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/137.

A legal contract establishing a confidential relationship between parties to protect sensitive information from disclosure.

An organisation operating independently of government, usually for social, humanitarian, environmental or other public-interest purposes. The label does not determine its legal form.

A conformity-assessment body designated and notified by a Member State to perform specified tasks under EU product legislation. Its authorised scope determines which products and assessment procedures it covers.

The field concerned with the safety and health of workers at work. Its principal EU framework is Directive 89/391/EEC.

A readiness band indicating the capability meets baseline expectations for EU market entry at this stage. Remaining gaps, if any, are manageable within normal execution planning.

An optional EU VAT simplification for reporting eligible cross-border consumer supplies through one Member State.

A digital platform that sells travel and accommodation services online, for example Booking.com or Expedia.

A person or organisation established in the EU or EEA and appointed by a manufacturer, formulator or article producer outside that area to fulfil specified importer duties under Article 8 of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006.

Hardware and software that monitors and controls physical devices, processes and infrastructure. Distinct from information technology (IT).

An intergovernmental organisation that develops policy analysis, data, standards and cooperation on economic and social issues.

A manufacturer of original products, equipment or components. Use of the term varies by sector and can include products sold under the manufacturer's own brand or incorporated into another company's offering.

Copyright-protected works whose rights holders cannot be identified or located after a diligent search. Directive 2012/28/EU permits specified public-interest institutions to make certain uses of qualifying orphan works.

An insurer's or reinsurer's assessment of its overall solvency needs, continuing compliance and risk profile under Article 45 of Directive 2009/138/EC. It forms part of the undertaking's risk-management system.

Regulation (EU) No 1286/2014, which provides for a standardised information document (KID) for packaged retail and insurance-based investment products sold to retail investors in the EU.

Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste. It applies in general from 12 August 2026, with later dates for many substantive measures.

EU rules strengthening equal pay through transparency and enforcement, established by Directive (EU) 2023/970. Its transposition deadline was 7 June 2026, while employer reporting is phased from 2027 and 2031 according to workforce size.

A legal person authorised under Article 11 of Directive (EU) 2015/2366 (PSD2) to provide and execute payment services throughout the EU, as defined in Article 4(4).

Directive (EU) 2015/2366, which sets rules for payment services, provides for Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) and enables open banking.

The EU payment-services reform initiative presented in Commission proposal COM(2023) 366, covering payment and electronic-money institutions. It forms part of a wider package addressing the framework for payment services.

The pension scheme for EU officials, governed by the Staff Regulations and Annex VIII. Transfers of pension rights are possible under Article 11 and the applicable arrangements.

A taxable business presence recognised under applicable national law or a tax treaty, commonly involving a fixed place of business or certain dependent-agent activities. The OECD Model Tax Convention provides an international reference.

Regulation (EU) 2019/1021, which restricts and prohibits persistent organic pollutants in substances and articles placed on the EU market. It implements the Stockholm Convention.

A qualified person responsible for specified regulatory-compliance tasks under Article 15 of Regulation (EU) 2017/745 or Regulation (EU) 2017/746. Responsibilities can be allocated among several people; the role does not transfer all of a manufacturer's responsibilities to one person.

Any information relating to an identified or identifiable natural person, as defined in Article 4(1) of Regulation (EU) 2016/679. Identifiability can arise directly or through combining information, including names, location data and online identifiers.

Equipment designed to protect the wearer from health or safety risks, such as helmets, gloves, eye protection and safety footwear. Covered by Regulation (EU) 2016/425.

An official plant-health document issued by an exporting country's competent authority. For specified plants, plant products and other objects entering the EU, Regulation (EU) 2016/2031 sets certification conditions relating to plant pests.

The prospective customers or deals being pursued by a business, usually organised by their stage in the sales process.

A person entrusted with prominent public functions, as defined in anti-money-laundering legislation such as Directive (EU) 2015/849.

Contaminants that can enter food through pollution or processing. Regulation (EU) 2023/915, Annex I, point 5.1.11, sets limits for food oils and fats, excluding cocoa butter and coconut oil: 2.0 µg/kg benzo(a)pyrene and 10.0 µg/kg for the specified four-PAH sum.

Workers who temporarily carry out work in a Member State other than the state where they normally work. Directive 96/71/EC, as amended by Directive (EU) 2018/957, provides the EU framework for their employment conditions.

The EU framework for employment conditions of workers temporarily posted to another Member State, established by Directive 96/71/EC and amended by Directive (EU) 2018/957. It identifies host-country protections and rules for longer postings.

A contract, often long-term, between an electricity generator and a buyer, common in renewable energy market entry. It is defined in Article 2(77) of Regulation (EU) 2019/943.

A check a buyer runs before approving a new supplier, covering certificates, documents and sometimes a site visit. It is a buyer process, with scope set by that buyer, not a uniform EU approval procedure.

Negative effects of investment decisions on sustainability factors. Article 4 of the SFDR, Regulation (EU) 2019/2088, sets disclosure rules on their consideration, with different arrangements depending on the financial market participant.

A notice informing the market about planned public procurement. Article 48 of Directive 2014/24/EU describes its use, including cases where it can also serve as a call for competition.

A vehicle used to provide pre-booked passenger transport with a driver, under the relevant national or local private-hire framework.

Products made by a supplier and sold under the retailer's own brand.

The process through which an organisation obtains goods, services or works. Public procurement is governed by specific rules that vary with the purchaser, contract and applicable legal framework.

Directive (EU) 2024/2853, the revised EU directive on product liability. Its transposition deadline is 9 December 2026, and the new rules concern products placed on the market or put into service after that date.

EU rules on compensation for damage caused by defective products, including software, established by Directive (EU) 2024/2853. It concerns products placed on the market or put into service after 9 December 2026.

The safety of a product during normal or reasonably foreseeable use. Regulation (EU) 2023/988 describes a safe consumer product as presenting no risk or only minimum risks compatible with its use and an acceptable level of protection.

Insurance covering claims arising from professional advice or services that cause financial loss to a client. Article 10(4) of Directive (EU) 2016/97 gives an example of its use.

A financial statement summarising revenues, costs, and expenses during a specific period, showing whether a business is profitable.

A limited test or demonstration used to assess whether an idea, technology or proposed solution is feasible. It does not by itself establish wider commercial viability.

An EU geographical indication for agricultural products whose qualities or characteristics are essentially or exclusively linked to a particular geographical environment. Under Regulation (EU) 2024/1143, production steps normally take place in the defined area.

An EU geographical indication for agricultural products with a quality, reputation or other characteristic linked to their geographical origin. Regulation (EU) 2024/1143 links the product to a defined area through at least one production step.

An entity subject to specified public-interest audit rules. Article 2(13) of Directive 2006/43/EC covers certain entities listed on EU regulated markets, credit institutions, insurers and entities additionally designated by Member States.

The set of planned activities by which a company makes sure its products consistently meet the agreed specifications.

Documented processes for managing quality, often certified to ISO 9001.

A framework that defines clear roles and decision rights by assigning Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed designations for each task or deliverable.

The EU rapid-alert network through which public authorities exchange information on serious food and feed risks, set up under Regulation (EC) No 178/2002.

Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 on the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals.

A measure aimed at getting back a product already supplied to consumers, unlike withdrawal, which stops a product still in the supply chain from being made available (definitions in Regulation (EU) 2023/988). For food, Article 19 of Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 provides for both.

Records under Article 30 of the GDPR, Regulation (EU) 2016/679, describing specified aspects of a controller's or processor's processing of personal data.

The target time for restoring a disrupted system, service or activity to an agreed level of operation.

A product or service subject to legal rules governing its supply or use. Depending on the sector, those rules may cover safety, information, qualifications, authorisation or conformity assessment.

Regulation (EU) No 1227/2011, amended by Regulation (EU) 2024/1106. It prohibits insider trading and market manipulation in wholesale energy markets and provides for trade reporting.

Directive (EU) 2023/2413, which amends Directive (EU) 2018/2001. It sets binding EU renewable energy targets and streamlines permitting for renewable projects.

Fuels whose energy content comes from renewable sources other than biomass, including qualifying renewable hydrogen and derived fuels. Specific EU rules, including Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/1184, determine when renewable electricity used in their production can be counted.

A formal document issued by an organisation inviting suppliers to submit a structured bid for goods or services, commonly used in public and private procurement across EU member states.

The order in which readiness gaps should be addressed, reflecting their dependency structure. Foundational gaps, such as ownership, legal structure, budget discipline and compliance pathway, are usually addressed before market-facing or execution gaps. The precise sequence depends on the firm, sector, target market and severity of the blockers identified.

Directive 2011/65/EU on the restriction of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment.

Directive (EU) 2024/1799 promotes repair of specified consumer goods and provides for a voluntary European Repair Information Form. Its transposition deadline was 31 July 2026.

A potential compliance or operational concern identified during assessment that warrants verification with specialists. Risk flags are advisory, not definitive legal conclusions.

A database security feature that restricts which rows a user can access based on their identity or role.

Criteria for determining the economic nationality of goods for customs and trade purposes. Regulation (EU) No 952/2013 distinguishes non-preferential origin from preferential origin, which can support reduced duties under specified arrangements.

An estimate of how long available cash can support a business at an assumed rate of net cash use. It changes when receipts, spending or financing change.

A structured document providing safety information about a chemical substance or mixture, with content and supply rules set by REACH, Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006.

EU rules on consumer sales contracts, conformity of goods and remedies under Directive (EU) 2019/771, as amended. They include repair and replacement options, with price reduction or termination in specified circumstances.

The prospective customers or deals being pursued by a business, usually organised by their stage in the sales process.

Measures that protect human, animal and plant health in trade. EU import controls vary by product, origin and the applicable measures.

The discipline of calibrating readiness thresholds and content against the operational reality of each sector, rather than applying one uniform reading to every firm.

A membership organisation and online platform through which suppliers share responsible-sourcing information and audit reports with their buyers.

A social audit methodology run by Sedex, with two-pillar and four-pillar options: both cover labour standards and health and safety, while the four-pillar option adds fuller environmental and business-ethics assessment. Buyers may ask suppliers for a recent SMETA report.

Personal data in the special categories listed in Article 9 of Regulation (EU) 2016/679, such as health, genetic, political or religious information. Biometric data fall within these categories when processed to identify someone uniquely.

A contract between a service provider and customer that defines the level of service expected, including metrics, responsibilities, and remedies.

The part of a total addressable market that a business's offering and capabilities can serve, taking account of factors such as geography, customer type and distribution.

The share of a serviceable market that a business estimates it can capture within a stated period, based on assumptions about customers, competition and capacity.

The EU framework for reducing unjustified barriers to covered services under Directive 2006/123/EC. It includes administrative simplification and points of single contact, with specified sectors excluded from its scope.

Short-stay accommodation rental. Regulation (EU) 2024/1028 concerns registration and data sharing for it in areas covered by registration procedures, and applies from 20 May 2026.

Regulation (EU) 2024/1028, applying from 20 May 2026. It concerns registration and data sharing for short-term accommodation rental in areas with registration procedures.

An EU payment integration initiative that simplifies bank transfers in euro across Member States and associated countries. Its geographical scope is 41 countries.

The EU area without internal frontiers in which the free movement of goods, persons, services and capital is supported by the Treaties. Article 26 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union defines this internal market.

EU rules on a single application procedure for residence and work permits for covered non-EU workers, established by Directive (EU) 2024/1233. The transposition deadline was 21 May 2026.

Directive (EU) 2019/904, which restricts and prohibits specific single-use plastic products placed on the EU market. Implementation varies materially by Member State.

Directive (EU) 2024/1640, the sixth EU directive on anti-money laundering. Transposition deadlines vary by provision.

An enterprise with fewer than 250 staff and annual turnover up to EUR 50 million or a balance-sheet total up to EUR 43 million, under Commission Recommendation 2003/361/EC. Partner and linked enterprises affect the calculation.

A clinical terminology system used for electronic health records and health data exchange. The current product is SNOMED CT (SNOMED Clinical Terms).

An audit of working conditions at a supplier's site (pay, hours, health and safety, forced and child labour), usually requested by buyers. SMETA is one common format.

The EU framework coordinating national social-security systems under Regulation (EC) No 883/2004. It includes rules on applicable legislation, combining qualifying periods and cross-border benefits.

Italian private bodies authorised by ANAC to attest contractors' qualifications for public works under the applicable procurement rules.

Software with a medical purpose, potentially covered by Regulation (EU) 2017/745 or Regulation (EU) 2017/746. Classification depends on intended purpose, while AI status is assessed separately under Regulation (EU) 2024/1689.

A software delivery model in which applications are hosted by a provider and accessed over the internet, commonly through a subscription.

An inventory of a software product's components and dependencies. The Cyber Resilience Act, Regulation (EU) 2024/2847, includes an SBOM requirement within its vulnerability-handling rules, generally applicable from 11 December 2027.

Solvency II capital requirement for insurance and reinsurance undertakings (Directive 2009/138/EC), calibrated to a 99.5% one-year value-at-risk. The principal capital metric for EU insurance regulation.

The EU prudential framework for insurers and reinsurers under Directive 2009/138/EC, covering capital, governance and supervision. National measures implementing the review in Directive (EU) 2025/2 apply from 30 January 2027.

A legal entity created for a specific project, transaction or asset-holding purpose. Its structure may separate particular assets and risks from other activities.

EU-approved contract terms, set out in Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2021/914, that provide appropriate safeguards for transferring personal data outside the European Economic Area to countries without adequacy decisions.

A documented process describing how an organisation performs a recurring task or activity.

A questionnaire owned by Shared Assessments, used for third-party risk assessment. It is a private tool, not an EU standard.

The categorical decision output of an AFT EU Market Readiness assessment. The instrument resolves to one of three verdicts: Go, Conditional Go, or Hold. A Hold is a sequencing signal, not a failure judgement.

Authentication using at least two independent elements from knowledge, possession and inherence, as defined by PSD2. Its use is subject to the applicable scope and exemptions.

A readiness band indicating the capability exceeds baseline expectations and demonstrates strong evidence of EU market readiness.

A separate legal entity controlled by another company. Unlike a branch, it has its own legal identity, and the concept is not limited to companies established in the EU.

A substance identified under REACH, Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006, and placed on its candidate list. Inclusion in the candidate list is not the same as inclusion in the authorisation list.

The network of organisations, activities and resources involved in producing and delivering a product or service.

A report filed with the Financial Intelligence Unit when a transaction or activity appears related to money laundering or terrorist financing.

Regulation (EU) 2019/2088, which sets sustainability disclosure rules for financial market participants at entity level (Article 4, on consideration or non-consideration of principal adverse impacts, as applicable) and at product level (Articles 6, 8 and 9).

Private reporting frameworks on controls from the AICPA. SOC 1 concerns controls relevant to financial reporting, while SOC 2 concerns security and any additional selected Trust Services Criteria.

The World Bank's online system for planning and tracking procurement in covered Bank-financed projects. It supports procurement exchanges between borrowers and the Bank.

An employer that assigns its workers temporarily to a user undertaking, where they work under that undertaking's supervision and direction. Directive 2008/104/EC defines the role and provides EU protections for temporary agency workers.

The online version of the Supplement to the Official Journal of the EU, dedicated to European public procurement.

A document setting out the main terms of a proposed transaction or agreement. Whether particular provisions are binding depends on the wording, context and applicable law.

An air operator from outside the EU aviation framework. EASA TCO authorisation is the safety authorisation for covered commercial air transport operations to, from or within that framework. It does not itself grant traffic rights.

An external provider that handles logistics activities such as warehousing, order fulfilment and transport for another business.

European Central Bank framework for advanced cybersecurity testing of financial entities. It provides the methodological basis for threat-led penetration testing under DORA.

Advanced cyber-resilience testing under DORA, Regulation (EU) 2022/2554, for selected financial entities, normally at least every three years. Testing follows the applicable DORA framework, with conditions for external and internal testers.

EU rules on the manufacture, presentation and sale of tobacco and related products, including electronic cigarettes, established by Directive 2014/40/EU.

An estimate of the total demand or revenue opportunity for a defined product or service across a specified market. Its size depends on the market boundaries and assumptions used.

The ability to trace and follow a product through production, processing and distribution. Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 defines food-chain traceability and provides the EU food and feed framework.

Evidence that a product or service is gaining market acceptance, such as customer use, sales, repeat purchases or retention. The strength of that evidence depends on the business model and measurement period.

An assessment of whether laws or practices in a destination country undermine safeguards for a personal-data transfer using an Article 46 mechanism under Regulation (EU) 2016/679. EDPB Recommendations 01/2020 describe this assessment.

An entity responsible for operating high-voltage electricity or high-pressure gas networks in a Member State.

Collective investment undertakings meeting the EU framework in Directive 2009/65/EC, as amended. The framework covers investor protection, portfolio rules and cross-border marketing procedures for qualifying funds.

Directive 2005/29/EC, which bans misleading and aggressive business-to-consumer commercial practices. It was amended by Directive (EU) 2024/825.

A court shared by participating EU Member States for specified disputes concerning unitary patents and European patents. Its jurisdiction is set by the Agreement on a Unified Patent Court, including transitional arrangements and opt-outs.

A device-identification system under the medical-device rules, Regulation (EU) 2017/745, combining a device identifier with production information.

UN body developing model rules for international trade law, for example the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules, which provide a procedure for arbitration.

The United Nations specialised agency promoting international cooperation in education, science and culture.

Common procurement portal for UN agencies, providing supplier registration, tender notification and contract awards across the UN system.

Pension scheme covering staff of UN organisations and other member organisations. Operates transfer windows and reciprocal arrangements with other international-organisation pension schemes.

A legal framework for ensuring access to specified basic services at affordable prices. EU examples include electronic communications under Directive (EU) 2018/1972 and postal services under Directive 97/67/EC.

EU rules for collecting, treating and discharging urban waste water, established by Directive (EU) 2024/3019. The recast framework addresses pollution, health and environmental impacts and applies in stages.

A tax on consumption collected through the supply chain, with rates and some rules varying by Member State.

An EU package modernising VAT reporting, platform-economy rules and registration arrangements. It includes Directive (EU) 2025/516 and applies in stages.

An EU competition-law exemption for qualifying agreements between businesses at different supply-chain levels, established by Regulation (EU) 2022/720. Its conditions include market-share thresholds and exclusions for specified restrictive terms.

A platform designated by the Commission under the Digital Services Act, Regulation (EU) 2022/2065, after meeting the threshold of at least 45 million average monthly active recipients in the EU.

An online search engine designated by the European Commission under Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 after meeting the threshold of at least 45 million average monthly active recipients in the EU. Designation brings additional oversight and responsibilities.

A service allowing viewers to choose when to watch videos from a catalogue. Directive 2010/13/EU defines on-demand audiovisual media services for the EU audiovisual regulatory framework.

1963 international treaty establishing consular functions and immunities. Distinct from VCDR (diplomatic) and from headquarters-agreement frameworks for international organisations.

The 1961 international treaty governing diplomatic relations between states, including the functions, privileges and immunities of diplomatic missions and their personnel.

Directive 2012/19/EU, which provides for producers to finance the collection, treatment and recycling of electrical and electronic waste.

Directive 2008/98/EC, which establishes the legal framework for waste management, including the waste hierarchy and extended producer responsibility.

Regulation (EU) 2024/1157, the recast EU framework for waste shipments within the EU and to or from third countries. It applies in general from 21 May 2026, with later dates for specific export provisions.

Directive 2000/60/EC, which establishes a framework for Community action in the field of water policy.

EU accessibility rules for covered public-sector websites and mobile applications, established by Directive (EU) 2016/2102. Harmonised standards support assessment against its accessibility requirements.

Technical guidelines published by the World Wide Web Consortium to make web content more accessible to people with disabilities. They inform accessibility standards and legislation but do not by themselves establish compliance with every EU accessibility rule.

Reporting information on breaches of EU law in specified areas, obtained in a work-related context. Directive (EU) 2019/1937 provides protection subject to its conditions.

An independent international agency that develops, harmonises and coordinates anti-doping rules and programmes in sport.

A building with very high energy performance, zero or very low energy demand, no on-site carbon emissions from fossil fuels and zero or very low operational greenhouse-gas emissions. Directive (EU) 2024/1275 defines this category and phases in new-building provisions.