Industry insider: unregulated packages are undermining European tackle trade

No compliance, no safeguards and no investment in innovation or product development.

That is the scenario that creates an unfair playing field for established fishing tackle brands, undermines the sustainability of the sport and jeopardises industry agreements and quality standards the trade has built up over decades.

So says a former employee with two of the world’s most famous fishing tackle brands following the emergence of giant digital sellers like Temu and AliExpress.

He writes: “Many companies from Japan, the US and the EU have made significant investments in factories in China, creating a win-win situation for both parties. Without these collaborations, neither side would have had the opportunities they enjoy today. Most of these factories are loyal and understand the history and business models of their partners.
However, at the same time, Asia has a vast number of traders who sell products from China to the rest of the world.

“Many small-scale sellers on platforms like AliExpress or Temu fall into this category. The problem is that when individuals buy from these platforms, the buyers themselves becomes the importer. Legally and practically, the responsibility lies with them.

“This is not a trivial matter. Established brands are making significant efforts to ensure the fishing industry is sustainable. For example:
• Initiatives to reduce plastic packaging and use lead-free materials;
• Obligations for companies to pay fees for waste management, including packaging and end-of-life recycling for products like carp bivvies or clothing;
• Ensuring compliance with chemical regulations such as REACH;
• Additional requirements for products containing electronics or batteries to meet EU standards (WEEE);
• Trademarks.

“All of these cost money, but more importantly, there is a European company accountable. If something goes wrong – chemical contamination or production defects – there is a responsible party with a phone number and address that can be contacted. By contrast, purchases via AliExpress or Temu bypass all these safeguards. The issue is not simply the low cost of products – it is the systematic consequences of bypassing responsibilities and standards.”