Coming in 2025: What the European Accessibility Act (EAA) Means for Businesses
On June 28, 2025, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) will come into effect across the European Union (EU). This legislation is designed to ensure that everyone—including persons with disabilities and older adults—can access products and services equally. The EAA harmonizes accessibility requirements across the EU, creating both new obligations and opportunities for businesses.
Who Should Read This Article
- Business leaders and legal teams offering products or services in the EU market: EAA compliance will become a legal obligation.
- Web and app developers and designers: You need to understand the technical accessibility requirements for digital products.
- CSR/ESG professionals: Accessibility is a key component of corporate social responsibility.
- Disability advocates and policymakers: The EAA strengthens protections for the rights of persons with disabilities.
Overview and Purpose of the EAA
The EAA aims to standardize accessibility requirements across EU member states and improve the accessibility of products and services, enabling better access for people with disabilities and older users.
Key Objectives
- Harmonize Accessibility Standards: Eliminates inconsistencies among member states, reducing complexity for businesses.
- Expand Market Opportunities: Increases demand for accessible products and services, creating new business potential.
- Promote Social Inclusion: Improves access for people with disabilities, supporting independence and participation in society.
Products and Services Covered by the EAA
The EAA applies accessibility requirements to a wide range of commonly used products and services.
Products
- Computers and operating systems
- ATMs, ticketing machines, check-in terminals
- Smartphones
- Digital TV equipment
Services
- Telephony services and related equipment
- Audio-visual media services
- Passenger transport services (air, bus, rail, water)
- Banking services
- E-books
- E-commerce services
These are vital to everyday life and were often governed by different national standards—now unified under the EAA.
Business Impacts and Compliance Obligations
Who Must Comply
The EAA applies to any business providing products or services in the EU market. This includes non-EU companies if they serve EU consumers.
Exemptions
Microenterprises may be exempt if they:
- Have fewer than 10 employees
- Have annual turnover or balance sheet below €2 million
However, even exempt businesses are encouraged to address accessibility where possible.
Risks of Non-Compliance
Failing to meet EAA requirements can lead to:
- Fines and penalties issued by national enforcement bodies
- Bans from the EU market for non-compliant products/services
- Reputational damage from perceived negligence in corporate responsibility
Implementation Timeline and Business Preparation
Timeline
- April 2019: EAA adopted by the EU
- June 28, 2022: Deadline for member states to transpose EAA into national law
- June 28, 2025: EAA requirements become enforceable for businesses
How to Prepare
- Evaluate current products and services for accessibility compliance
- Conduct a gap analysis against EAA standards
- Develop an action plan to bridge gaps
- Implement and verify improvements
- Commit to continuous accessibility enhancement
Accessibility Standards: EN 301 549 and WCAG
The EAA references EN 301 549 and WCAG for digital accessibility.
EN 301 549
This is the European standard for accessibility of ICT products and services, including public procurement requirements.
WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines)
An international set of guidelines for accessible web content, based on four principles:
- Perceivable
- Operable
- Understandable
- Robust
The EAA mandates compliance with WCAG 2.1 Level AA.
Impact on Japanese Companies
Japanese companies that provide products or services in the EU must also comply with the EAA. This includes:
- Electronics manufacturers: Devices must meet accessibility standards
- Software developers: Apps and websites must be accessible
- E-commerce businesses: Online stores must provide accessible interfaces
Early compliance planning is critical to remain competitive in the EU market.
Conclusion
With the EAA’s implementation, accessibility requirements for products and services in the EU will become uniform, introducing both legal obligations and strategic business opportunities. By proactively aligning with the EAA, companies—including those outside the EU—can avoid legal risks, expand their reach, and build stronger, more inclusive brands.
References
- European Commission: European Accessibility Act
- Wikipedia: European Accessibility Act
- Wikipedia: EN 301 549