What element does the initial digit of an EAN indicate?

The initial digit of an EAN (European Article Number) serves as a key identifier, indicating the country of origin. This digit helps in determining where a product was registered, which is crucial for inventory management, logistics, and sales tracking within the global supply chain. Each country has a unique range of initial digits assigned to it, which allows for straightforward identification of products based on their geographical origin. This aspect is integral to how EANs function, enabling retailers and consumers to understand the provenance of goods. The ability to track products back to their country of origin can also assist in quality control and regulatory compliance for international trade.