Compliance by online shopping websites with EU consumer protection legislation

4.2.2020

Question for written answer E-000638/2020
to the Commission
Rule 138
Edina Tóth (PPE)

According to the Commission’s latest report, two thirds of online shopping websites do not comply with EU consumer protection legislation. The consumer protection authority conducted a study involving nearly 500 webshops selling mainly clothing, shoes, furniture and electrical appliances in 27 Member States. The study of the websites – which the authority deems to be in need of further monitoring – revealed that nearly 50% of them failed to provide clear information on the deadline for returning products.

I was appalled by the large number of websites where problems were uncovered, and for that reason I would like to ask the Commission the following:

What action will the Commission take to protect consumers from unfair practices?

How will it ensure that the tools so far available will be better adapted to meeting the current global economic challenges?

What additional measures will the Commission take to put a stop to the negative practice by which purchasers are forced to pay higher prices because of the hidden costs imposed as a result of misleading the consumer?