CURRENT AFFAIRS: Visit of Commissioner McGrath to Spain

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McGrath outlines key points of European Consumer Agenda

On 20-21 April 2026, Madrid hosted a visit by European Commissioner Michael McGrath, responsible for the EU’s consumer portfolio, as part of an institutional meeting with representatives of the Spanish Consumers and Users Council. Beyond the formal nature of the meeting, the visit was also constructive and inclusive, reflecting a shared concern: how to ensure that European citizens remain protected at a time of rapid change in the economy and in consumer habits.

The meeting took place at a key moment, following the recent adoption of the 2030 Consumer Agenda, a document that not only sets regulatory priorities but also outlines a long-term vision for the role of consumers in the European Union. In his remarks, Mr McGrath repeated a central idea: consumers are no longer passive actors, but key players in the digital and green transitions, and public policies must support this transformation without leaving anyone behind.

One of the main topics discussed was the impact of digitalisation. The Commissioner spoke openly about the challenges of a market increasingly shaped by online platforms, where speed and an overload of information coexist with growing risks. He referred to algorithms that influence decisions, advertising that is sometimes difficult to distinguish from content and, more specifically, to so-called ‘dark patterns’: interface designs that push or guide users to make decisions they might not take in a fully transparent environment. From subscriptions that are hard to cancel to hidden or confusing options, Mr McGrath stressed that these practices are a key area for action in European consumer policy.

Within this context, the protection of minors in the digital environment was given special attention. Far from being a secondary issue, the Commissioner presented it as one of the major challenges of today and the future. He acknowledged that children and teenagers grow up in a digital ecosystem full of opportunities, but also specific risks, such as hidden advertising or design features that encourage excessive or even addictive use of certain platforms.

He then outlined some of the priorities already included in the European Consumer Agenda. On the one hand, the need for platforms to build in safety for minors by default, avoiding settings that could put their privacy or well-being at risk. On the other, limiting certain commercial practices aimed specifically at young users, especially those that take advantage of their lower level of awareness or use aggressive persuasion techniques. At the same time, he highlighted the importance of education: digital literacy—for children as well as for their families—as an essential tool to create a safer and more informed environment.

Another key point of his statement was sustainability, approached from a practical, everyday perspective. Mr McGrath referred to the growing public demand for products that are more durable, repairable and environmentally friendly, and to the need for the market to respond with clear and reliable information. In this regard, he stressed the importance of tackling ‘greenwashing’, not only to protect consumers but also to maintain trust in the green transition.

The discussion with the Spanish Consumers and Users Council also addressed the current economic context. Inflation, price volatility and uncertainty in certain sectors were identified as factors directly affecting consumer decisions. In response, the Commissioner called for stronger market monitoring and closer coordination between authorities to prevent abuses and ensure fair conditions.

The visit also included a breakfast briefing organised by Europa Press, which provided a more open setting for dialogue with representatives from different sectors. In this forum, in addition to expanding on the main policy ideas, the Commissioner was asked about the judicial and political situation in Spain. Rather than avoiding these questions, he answered them with caution but clearly, placing his comments within the framework of respect for national competences and the rule of law, and underlining the importance of institutional stability for consumer confidence and for the proper functioning of markets.

Overall, the visit conveyed a sense of an ambitious agenda, but also one that is aware of the complexity of the current environment. Beyond regulatory frameworks, the Commissioner’s message was clear: consumer protection is not just a technical or legal matter, but a fundamental element in maintaining trust in the European project.

Ileana IZVERNICEANU DE LA IGLESIA (Spain)

Member, EESC Civil Society Organisations' Group

Director for Communication and Institutional Relations and Spokesperson, Organisation of Consumers and Users (OCU)

© EU/EESC