ECC-Net Participates in European Consumer Summit 2024
The European Commission and the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU held the European Consumer Summit in Brussels in April 2024. Vice-President Věra Jourová inaugurated the summit, which brought together stakeholders to discuss future consumer protection and policy in the EU. The directors of 29 European Consumer Centres (ECCs) attended the summit and shared their insights during the panel and round-table discussions.
Discussing top priorities in consumer policy
A highlight of the summit was the morning panel discussion, which featured five high-level female experts. They emphasised critical aspects of the areas considered top priorities in consumer policy at the current juncture. These areas are:
- digital transformation
- greenwashing
- enforcement
The summit's discussions were enriched by active contributions from ECC directors, particularly on topics such as dropshipping and greenwashing. These discussions facilitated a deeper understanding of pressing consumer issues and fostered consensus on forward-looking strategies.
Addressing Dropshipping
In one of the round-table discussions, ECCs illustrated the actual scale on which dropshipping occurs and practical problems arise for consumers. It led to more awareness of the issues with
- information obligations
- cancellation and warranty rights
- high return costs, resulting in issues with payment service providers
The experts from the ECCs, CPCs and national consumer organisations discussed the issues and the need for improved enforcement mechanisms. These could entail extended information obligations and changes to taxes and shipping costs from third countries to the EU.
Sharing ideas to improve sustainability
In another round-table discussion, our ECC Directors shared their thoughts on actions traders could take to help achieve a more sustainable future. This is becoming more important as consumers are demanding sustainable products. Possible strategies to reduce the impact for the trader while also providing sustainable options to consumers are to
- ship by electric vehicles
- prevent unnecessary returns by providing more accurate descriptions
- encourage consumers’ participation in the circular economy by
- facilitating options to resell products
- offering options to buy recycled products
While raising consumers’ awareness of the environmental impact of online shopping and returns is essential, the right to warranty should always be fulfilled. It should also be kept in mind that payment for returns cannot be requested for damaged or defective products.
Developing strategies to enhance consumer rights
The workshops and plenary sessions throughout the summit proved instrumental in shaping actionable strategies for advancing consumer rights. The event underscored the importance of inclusive dialogue in achieving a comprehensive approach to consumer protection.
The European Commission's and all stakeholders' commitment to enhancing consumer protection was evident throughout the summit. This collaborative approach is essential as the EU addresses the complexities of economic and technological change affecting consumer rights.
Contributing to the New Consumer Agenda with ECC-Net’s insights
ECC-Net is poised to play a significant role in the New Consumer Agenda. By leveraging insights from consumer case data and maintaining active engagement with the European Commission, ECC-Net aims to contribute effectively to evolving consumer policies.
Want to know more?
For further details on the summit's outcomes and future initiatives, please visit the official European Consumer Summit website at https://consumer-summit-2024.b2match.io/home.