Strengthening Consumer Information Requirements in the EU

Keypoints

The EESC:

• suggests that accessible, readable and understandable information should be made available to all people, especially those with disabilities, and when it comes to goods and services from third countries. However, this should not create unnecessary red tape for small and medium-sized enterprises;
• considers that the EU consumer rights acquis is perceived as complicated and fragmented, especially difficult for small businesses to comply with. The EU consumer rules should be simplified and streamlined in order to make it easier for businesses to comply with and consumers to be aware of their rights;
• recommends that the right to consumer information in the internal market should be realised by using smart labels to monitor the state of products, by promoting the digital transition, and by developing robotics, artificial intelligence, blockchain and virtual reality;
• is concerned about the actions of providers of online platform services and search engines with regard to consumers’ right to information, and the obligation to apply reasonable, proportionate and effective measures to reduce systemic risks and illegal content, in particular to protect minors. In this regard, the EESC calls for equality between EU and non-EU operators when it comes to compliance along the entire value chain.

For more information, please contact the INT Section Secretariat