National Federation of Associations of Consumer Protection in Hungary
NFACPH
The National Association of Consumer Protection Associations (FEOSZ) is a social organization established in 2001, which represents independent consumer interests in Hungary.
ID: 680025443289-14
Lobbying Activity
Response to Consumer Agenda 2025-2030 and Action Plan on Consumers in the Single Market
31 Aug 2025
The European Unions new 20252030 Consumer Protection Strategy could be a milestone in strengthening the rights of citizens within the Union, promoting sustainable growth, and ensuring the fair functioning of the Single Market. In my view, the objectives outlined in the document reflect the challenges of our time well: the rapid spread of digitalisation, consumer vulnerability, the urgent issues of sustainability, and the evolving global trade environment. 1. Online marketplaces and digital markets A key element of the strategy is the proper regulation of online marketplaces and e-commerce, which requires continuous review due to technological developments. Uniform legislation is needed for all forms of online trade. Inequalities create unfair competition, and equal conditions should apply to all market participants. Regarding digital services, it is important that terminating a contract is as simple as entering into one. This regulation is not only a matter of convenience but also serves transparency and fair trade. 2. Vulnerable consumers and accessibility Protecting older people, persons with disabilities, and children is of fundamental importance. The shift to digital labelling or increasingly complex services must not lead to social exclusion. It is crucial that regulations are not only legally prescribed but effectively implemented in practice. Educating and informing young people in schools is particularly important, and necessary resources must be provided. 3. Sustainable consumption The sustainability aspects of the strategy are particularly forward-looking. Consumers often wish to choose environmentally friendly options, but lack of options, high prices, or short product lifespans pose barriers. Longer warranties, eco-design requirements, and repairability standards are concrete tools to ensure that sustainable choices are the default rather than a luxury. Accurate information is essential in this area, and misleading information should be sanctioned. 4. Food safety and healthy nutrition The strategy emphasizes access to healthy, sustainable, and affordable food. In my opinion, marketing unhealthy food to children should be banned. This is not only a consumer protection issue but also a public health concern. Prioritizing animal welfare also strengthens European citizens confidence in the food supply chain. 5. Enforcement and market surveillance Although the EU has strong consumer protection legislation, the greatest challenge is weak enforcement. There may be a need for a central European market surveillance authority to unify and strengthen national inspections. Compliance with rules is key: if enforcement is lax in one country, it weakens the entire EU market. Consumer protection NGOs also play an important role, as they directly encounter consumer issues, and their independence ensures accurate and impartial identification of problems. Their involvement and provision of professional and financial support can be crucial in this regard. 6. Artificial intelligence and algorithms Regulating algorithms and artificial intelligence is one of the major challenges of the future. Here, not only proper regulation but also its enforcement is crucial. Transparency for consumers for example, knowing whether a recommendation was generated by a human or an algorithm is essential. ________________________________________ Summary Overall, the European Unions 20252030 Consumer Protection Strategy is ambitious, forward-looking, and responsive to the challenges of our time. I support the underlying idea that consumer protection is not an obstacle but a driver of economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development. The real key to success lies in effective enforcement, strengthening consumer protection NGOs, and ensuring that consumer interests remain central in all EU decision-making processes.
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