Define: Cassis/Class

The Cassis/Class principle is a legal doctrine that originated in European Union law. It states that if a product is lawfully produced and marketed in one EU member state, it should be allowed to be sold in any other member state without additional restrictions or requirements.

The Cassis/Class principle promotes the free movement of goods within the EU by preventing member states from imposing unnecessary barriers or regulations on products that are already legally sold in another member state.

Yes, there are certain exceptions to the Cassis/Class principle. Member states can justify restrictions on the grounds of public health, consumer protection, or other legitimate reasons. However, these restrictions must be proportionate and non-discriminatory.

The Cassis/Class principle is specific to the EU and its member states. However, similar principles promoting the free movement of goods exist in other regional trade agreements, such as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) or the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Free Trade Area.

The Cassis/Class principle requires member states to review and potentially amend their national regulations to ensure they do not create unnecessary barriers to trade. It encourages harmonization of regulations across the EU to facilitate the free movement of goods.

A member state can ban a product that is legally sold in another member state, but it must provide a legitimate justification for doing so. The ban must be necessary and proportionate to protect public health, safety, or other legitimate interests.

Under the Cassis/Class principle, a member state cannot impose additional labeling requirements on a product that is already legally labeled in another member state. However, if the labeling requirements are necessary for consumer protection or public health reasons, they may be justified.

The Cassis/Class principle generally prohibits member states from imposing different technical standards on a product that is already legally sold in another member state. However, if the different standards are necessary to protect public health, safety, or the environment, they may be justified.

The Cassis/Class principle does not allow member states to restrict the sale of a product based solely on cultural or moral grounds. Restrictions must be based on legitimate reasons such as public health, safety, or consumer protection.

The Cassis/Class principle is enforced through legal mechanisms within the EU, such as the European Court of Justice. If a member state is found to be in violation of the principle, it may be required to remove the unjustified restrictions or face legal consequences.