Croatia adopts EU USB-C laptop charging rule from 28 April

ZAGREB, 28 April 2026 (Hina) – The European Union’s universal charger policy has been expanded to include laptops from Tuesday, marking the final phase of a legislative effort aimed at simplifying device use and reducing electronic waste across the bloc.

Following rules introduced at the end of 2024 requiring all mobile phones, tablets and cameras sold in the EU to feature USB-C ports, the same obligation now applies to laptops.

The move effectively standardises charging across a wide range of electronic devices used daily by millions of citizens, including in Croatia.

The change is the result of years of political pressure, particularly from the European Parliament, which has advocated a universal charging solution for more than a decade.

After voluntary industry agreements failed to deliver meaningful results, the European Commission proposed legislation in September 2021.

This was later formalised through Directive (EU) 2022/2380, amending existing rules on the sale of radio equipment within the EU.

EU lawmakers have consistently highlighted the dual benefits of the policy, improving convenience for consumers while significantly reducing electronic waste.

Discarded and unused chargers are estimated to generate around 11,000 tonnes of e-waste annually across the EU, alongside substantial disposal costs.

The introduction of a common charging standard is expected to cut this figure considerably, while also allowing consumers to reuse existing chargers and reduce unnecessary purchases.

The rules also ensure compatibility with fast-charging technologies and maintain flexibility for future technological innovation. Consumers will continue to have the option to purchase devices with or without chargers.

Croatia aligns national legislation

In Croatia, the EU directive has been transposed through the national Rulebook on Radio Equipment (NN 56/2024), which sets out detailed technical requirements for devices placed on the market.

Under the regulation, devices including laptops must:

• Be equipped with a functional USB-C port

• Support charging via cables compliant with EU USB-C standards

• Ensure compatibility with USB Power Delivery (USB PD) for higher charging capacities

The framework also requires manufacturers, importers and distributors to meet strict compliance standards, including appropriate certification, technical documentation and user instructions in the Croatian language.

One charger, multiple devices

The extension of the rule to laptops completes one of the EU’s most visible consumer-focused regulatory initiatives. By introducing a single charging solution across multiple device categories, the EU aims to reduce costs, simplify everyday technology use and contribute to circular economy goals.

For Croatia, the implementation ensures that consumers benefit from the same standards as across the EU, while reinforcing environmental targets and market consistency.