Preamble:
The Trusted Charging Alliance (TCA) is committed to promoting trust, quality and safety in the electronics industry, with a particular focus on charging technologies in Europe. As an alliance dedicated to maintaining the highest standards, the following Code of Conduct outlines the principles and commitments that member companies are expected to adhere to:
1. Compliance with EU laws and regulations:
All Trusted Charging Alliance member companies must comply with the laws, standards and regulations of the European Union. Compliance with EU directives relating to electronic products, consumer rights, environmental regulations and other applicable laws is mandatory. Members must comply with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other relevant data protection laws. Companies must ensure that consumer data is handled with the highest level of security, transparency and respect for privacy.
2. Product quality and safety:
Members must prioritize the development, manufacture and distribution of high quality charging solutions that meet or exceed industry standards. Products must undergo rigorous quality and safety testing to ensure reliability, durability and user safety.
3. Transparency and accountability:
Consumers should be provided with accurate and clear information on product specifications, compatibility and safety measures. Companies must take responsibility for the performance of their products and rectify any problems immediately.
4. Cooperation and innovation:
Promote collaboration between members to foster innovation in charging technology. The sharing of knowledge, research and best practice within the Alliance will drive progress in the industry and benefit both businesses and consumers.
5. Trust and ethical business practices:
Promoting an environment of trust and ethical behavior in all business relationships. Fair competition, integrity in marketing and advertising and respect for intellectual property rights are fundamental principles of the Alliance. Members should adapt their products and services to the specific needs and regulations of the various EU regions and ensure that local market conditions and customer preferences are taken into account in their offerings.
6. Responsibility for the environment:
Member companies should strive to minimize the environmental impact of their products and activities. This includes using sustainable practices in manufacturing, reducing electronic waste and supporting environmentally friendly initiatives wherever possible.
7. Consumer education and support:
Promote initiatives to educate consumers about the importance of high-quality charging solutions and how to recognize reliable products. Adequately support consumers in understanding the compatibility, use and safety aspects of charging technologies.
8. Continuous improvement:
Regularly reviewing and updating the standards to adapt them to technological advances, regulatory changes and evolving consumer needs. Commitment to continuous improvement in all aspects of the Alliance’s work.
9. Non-discrimination:
Respect diversity and promote an inclusive environment within the Alliance. Member companies shall not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected characteristic. Members are committed to respecting human rights in all areas of their business activities and reject any form of corruption, bribery or unethical practices. They must ensure that all business relationships, including with suppliers, contractors and distributors, reflect these values.
10. Dispute resolution:
Establish a mechanism for the fair, efficient and impartial resolution of disputes between members, encouraging dialog and mediation to resolve conflicts or concerns.
11. Ethical manufacturing practices:
Member companies ensure that their manufacturing practices meet the highest ethical standards, including fair labor practices, humane working conditions and respect for workers’ rights, setting a benchmark for global practices.
12. Regional sourcing and production:
Encourage sourcing of materials and manufacturing in the EU whenever possible to support the local economy, maintain control over quality and ensure compliance with EU standards throughout the supply chain. More than 50% of the supply chain to the final product should be from EU sources. Initiate consumer education campaigns to raise awareness of the benefits of high-quality, EU-produced products and the risks associated with inferior, non-EU-produced alternatives.
13. Certification and quality labeling:
Introduction of a certification and labeling system to clearly identify and distinguish TCA-compliant products, helping consumers to recognize high-quality and reliable products manufactured according to EU standards.
14. Commitment to research and development:
Member companies should commit to investing in research and development to drive innovation, improve product quality and maintain competitiveness in the global market.
15. Measures to combat counterfeiting:
Introduction of advanced anti-counterfeiting technologies such as holograms, QR codes or blockchain to protect the integrity of TCA-certified products and ensure authenticity for consumers.
16. Comprehensive after-sales support:
Provide comprehensive after-sales services, including warranties, technical support and customer service, to build consumer confidence and ensure long-term satisfaction with TCA products.
17. Local environmental and social responsibility:
Demonstrate your commitment to environmental and social responsibility by participating in local initiatives, reducing your carbon footprint and promoting sustainable practices in all areas of your business.
18. Lobbying for fair trade:
Active participation in lobbying the EU regulatory authorities to promote a fair trade policy, prevent dumping practices and ensure a level playing field for all market participants.
By joining the Trusted Charging Alliance, companies recognize and commit to these principles and actively contribute to the Alliance’s mission to ensure trust and quality in the electronics industry and especially in charging technologies across Europe.
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