Ministers discussed consumer rights and future consumer policy framework

On 25 June Croatian Presidency organized the Informal High-level Videoconference on the New Consumer Agenda.

The videoconference was chaired by the Croatian Minister of the Economy, Entrepreneurship and Crafts, Mr. Darko Horvat. It was also attended by the Commissioner in charge of justice, Mr. Didier Reynders.

The ministers and high-level officials from the EU members states, responsible for the consumer rights policy, focused their discussion on two points:

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  The impact of COVID-19 on consumer rights and measures that could be introduced to help consumers in different areas.
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  Future consumer policy framework with regard to sustainable consumption and digital transition.

COVID-19 has affected consumers in different areas. We have witnessed excessive rise of prices of some products, as well as misinformation and scams on online platforms.

Digital commerce has also increased but, unfortunately, since the start of the pandemic, there has been a rise in rogue traders selling false or unsafe products online such as masks, caps, and hand sanitizers.

The European Commission is launching public consultations on the New Consumer Agenda - a holistic, long-term EU consumer policy framework ensuring a higher convergence of the EU and national policies in the field of consumer protection.

“I believe that the New Consumer Agenda comes at the right moment. Now is time to assess what bring the “new normal” and what measures could be taken in the future to boost consumer confidence in the market.”, said Minister Horvat.

„Consumers must play a key role in the green and digital transitions our societies are undergoing. They should also be a driving force of our recovery from the current COVID-19 pandemic. This calls for an ambitious consumer policy that is effectively enforced throughout the Union.“, stated Commissioner Reynders.