Geo-blocking in Europe - recommendations for the Trilogue negotiations

Consumers are very often prevented from ordering a product online in another Member State or faced with higher prices than local consumers just because of the country they come from. This is because some companies erect artificial barriers in what is supposed to be a borderless digital Single Market. This practice is called geo-blocking. In the EU, consumers should be able to purchase products and services from the retailer or supplier of their choice. This would increase choice, competition and eventually bring prices down.

Recommendations concern: 

• The scope of application - inclusion of copyrighted content;

• The applicable law and jurisdiction;

• The access to online interfaces and re-routing;

• Payment discrimination;

• Restrictions to cross-border passive sale;

• The return of products.