1. 20 May 2025, 11:30 - 13:00 (CEST)

   1st thematic discussion: Strengthening Consumer Protection through effective enforcement

   Unfair business practices by traders targeting EU consumers pose a growing threat to consumers' rights and safety, and the competitiveness of compliant EU businesses. Both the Draghi report and the Commission’s Competitiveness Compass highlight that unfair competition from non-EU traders is hindering innovation and growth for EU companies and SMEs. To address these challenges, the Commission put forward a comprehensive strategy outlined in the e-commerce communication of 5 February 2025. Among the key actions identified in this Communication is a possible reform of the CPC Regulation, in order to strengthen enforcement in relation to large-scale infringements and improve coordination among authorities. Aligned with the Commission’s Competitiveness Compass, the proposed improvements would bring simplification and reduce burden for enforcement authorities and compliant traders. 

   The purpose of the discussion is to gather insights from national authorities on the challenges they encounter in enforcing consumer laws in cross-border cases. It will also include input from EU business representatives regarding the need for consistent enforcement to safeguard a level-playing field and a fair competition across the EU, ensuring that non-EU traders adhere to the same standards as EU businesses. Consumers associations will also share their inputs with regard to gaps in effective enforcement of consumers law across the EU. 

2. 14:30 - 16:00 (CEST)

   2nd thematic discussion: Shaping a safe digital market for young consumers

   Children and young people are among the most active users of the digital environment, yet they are also among the most vulnerable. This thematic workshop will delve into the unique and growing challenges young consumers face online, from addictive design features and personalised advertising to loot boxes and virtual currencies in video games, or unfair influencer marketing. Such practices sometimes seek to exploit vulnerabilities of young consumers and raise concerns about fairness, transparency, and children’s well-being.

   The discussions will be informed by the findings of the European Commission’s Digital Fairness Fitness Check, which identified several regulatory and enforcement gaps in protecting consumers online, that are especially pronounced for children and adolescents. The panel will explore how the existing consumer protection framework can evolve to address these shortcomings, and what role future legislation, including the upcoming Digital Fairness Act, can play in ensuring a safer and more equitable digital environment for young consumers.

Practical information