Fitness check report finds EU consumer law largely suitable for digital age

(content provided by EuroCommerce) An European Commission report has concluded that existing laws are well equipped to deal with the expansion of e-commerce. While there may be some issues, a major overhaul is not necessary.

More awareness needed

The European Commission last week published the results of the Better Regulation Fitness Check of all the major consumer protection laws. The report concludes that existing consumer law is fit for purpose and no major overhaul is needed to address the expansion of e-commerce. The report saw problems with awareness among consumers, traders and enforcement bodies, and some issues surrounding enforcement.

These results are in line with EuroCommerce’s position, underlining the overall positive impact of consumer law and calling for maintaining the status quo. The Commission will propose some legislative and non-legislative action, including awareness-raising for consumers and traders, and guidance on the Unfair Contract Terms Directive and the Consumer Rights Directive (CRD).

The Commission will also draw up voluntary principles for better presentation of consumer information and there will be targeted legislative changes, introducing transparency requirements for online platforms and extending protection for free digital services. The Commission is also planning to improve individual redress and streamline enforcement. Ahead of the upcoming legislative proposal, the Commission will launch an online public consultation and will publish an Impact Assessment.