Federal Council's initiative for a more equitable cross-border internet commerce receives backing from HDE
The German Retail Association (HDE) has voiced its support for a resolution passed by the Bundesrat last Friday, which aims to create a future-proof and fair digital market order and consumer protection for European traders. The proposals, seen as a crucial step towards solving long-recognized problems in the current online trading system, aim to ensure that all traders, including those from third countries, adhere to the same standards as European traders.
The resolution focuses on online platforms in third-country trade and includes guidelines for product liability, return information, and the designation of an EU-based economic actor. Stephan Tromp, deputy CEO of HDE, emphasized the significant competition imbalance between European companies and third-country platform traders. He stated that an unacceptable state of affairs exists where the honest traders who follow the law are at risk of losing out.
According to Tromp, the proposed measures address key weaknesses in the current online trading system. He warned that the problems have long been recognized and that immediate action is necessary to prevent the potential demise of local traders who comply with the law. Tromp sees the Bundesrat's proposals as an important step towards creating a future-proof and fair digital market order and consumer protection.
The current regulations governing EU trade with third countries include established trade agreements, anti-coercion instruments, and tariffs and quotas. The EU is generally pushing for stronger enforcement mechanisms to protect its exporters and consumers against unfair trade practices. The ongoing efforts to address trade barriers and unfair practices with countries like Algeria highlight the EU's commitment to safeguarding its economic operators and consumers.
The HDE, as a representative of German retail interests, typically advocates for policies that protect consumer rights and ensure fair market competition within the EU. This often involves supporting EU trade policies that promote consumer protection and market responsibility. While specific details about the HDE's support for these measures are not provided, it is likely that they would support the Bundesrat's proposals by promoting policies that enhance consumer protection and ensure a level playing field for European retailers.
The federal government and the EU are called upon to act promptly and decisively on the Bundesrat's proposals. The swift abolition of customs-free limits is one of the resolution's aims, which could provide a more level playing field for European traders and help protect consumers from potentially unsafe products. The resolution is a significant step towards ensuring a fair and safe digital market order for all traders on the European single market.
- The HDE, supporting the Bundesrat's resolution, emphasizes the need for policies that ensure a level playing field for European traders in third-country trade, particularly concerning product liability, return information, and the designation of an EU-based economic actor.
- In the realm of policy-and-legislation, the Bundesrat's proposals aim to address the significant competition imbalance between European companies and third-country platform traders, addressing key weaknesses in the current online trading system to create a future-proof and fair digital market order.
- The ongoing general-news surrounding the EU's commitment to safeguarding economic operators and consumers against unfair trade practices includes efforts to enhance consumer protection and address trade barriers with countries like Algeria, highlighting the EU's commitment to creating a fair and safe digital market order for all traders on the European single market.
