Countdown to Compliance: Why Connected Device Manufacturers Must Prepare for the EU CRA Now

With the EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) officially adopted, connected device manufacturers face a critical countdown to meet its stringent cybersecurity requirements by 2027. While the deadline may seem distant, the reality of product development timelines for connected devices leaves no time for delay. 

Preparing for compliance must begin now to avoid costly setbacks and ensure market readiness. Here’s why early action is not just recommended but essential:

1. Long Development Cycles Demand Proactive Action

Developing connected devices with embedded software is a complex process that spans years. From initial design and prototyping to testing, certification, and production, product lifecycles require manufacturers to think years ahead.

Under the CRA, products must meet rigorous "secure by design" and "secure by default" standards. For manufacturers, this means embedding cybersecurity considerations into the earliest stages of product development. Delays in adapting to these standards now could leave products in the pipeline vulnerable to non-compliance by the 2027 deadline.

2. The Challenge of Integrating New Processes

Compliance with the CRA is more than a checklist—it demands a cultural shift in how organizations approach cybersecurity. Manufacturers must integrate Secure Development Lifecycles (SDLC), establish robust processes for managing security vulnerabilities, and implement Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) generation as part of their standard operations.

These changes may require:

• Adopting new tools and technologies like automated vulnerability scanners and SBOM management platforms.
• Upskilling teams to understand and implement CRA-compliant practices effectively.
• Reworking existing workflows to align with the CRA’s mandates, including vulnerability remediation timelines and post-market monitoring.

Starting early ensures your organization has the time and resources to implement these changes gradually, minimizing disruption to your operations.

3. No Grandfathering Clause Means No Exceptions

One critical aspect of the CRA is its forward-looking application. Products already under development will not be "grandfathered" into compliance. If your product is expected to enter the market in or after 2027, it must meet the CRA’s requirements—regardless of when its development began.

Manufacturers who wait to adapt may face costly last-minute redesigns, prolonged testing cycles, and delayed market entry. Aligning development pipelines with CRA standards now ensures your in-progress products won’t face these avoidable setbacks.

4. Non-Compliance Comes at a High Cost

The CRA’s penalties for non-compliance are steep, both financially and reputationally:

• Fines: Up to €15 million or 2.5% of global annual turnover, whichever is higher.
• Market Consequences: Non-compliant products may be barred from the EU market entirely.
• Reputational Damage: Non-compliance could erode trust among customers, partners, and stakeholders, with long-term consequences for your brand.

Early preparation reduces the risk of scrambling to meet the deadline and positions your organization to demonstrate compliance confidently.

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5. A Competitive Advantage in the EU Market

Compliance is not just a regulatory hurdle—it’s an opportunity. The CRA underscores the EU’s commitment to cybersecurity, and manufacturers who adopt its standards early can position themselves as leaders in the field. By prioritizing compliance, you:

• Build trust with customers by showcasing a commitment to security.
• Streamline market entry by avoiding delays caused by last-minute adjustments.
• Gain a head start on competitors who delay action, enhancing your reputation as a forward-thinking manufacturer.

The Path Forward

To align with the CRA, manufacturers should take the following immediate steps:

1. Perform a Gap Analysis: Assess your current product development processes against the CRA’s requirements.
2. Establish a Compliance Roadmap: Define clear milestones for implementing CRA-compliant practices, tools, and technologies.
3. Invest in Training and Resources: Ensure your teams understand CRA requirements and have the resources to meet them.
4. Engage with Experts: Partner with cybersecurity experts, like Finite State, to navigate the complexities of compliance and secure your supply chain.

Act Today to Protect Tomorrow

By embedding CRA compliance into your product development lifecycle today, you can ensure your products are market-ready in 2027 and beyond. The EU market for connected devices is growing, but manufacturers must meet the CRA’s cybersecurity standards to participate. Acting now not only reduces risks but also positions your company for long-term success in an increasingly regulated industry.

Talk to us today to discover how Finite State can help support your compliance with the EU CRA.