Digital trade rules that work for consumers

In this position paper, the European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) outlines a consumer-centred vision for EU digital trade policy. Digital trade rules should not only facilitate cross-border commerce but also strengthen consumer rights, uphold data protection standards, improve cybersecurity and ensure accountability in the digital economy. The EU must preserve its ability to regulate emerging technologies and guarantee that consumers remain protected in an increasingly globalised and digital marketplace.

BEUC's Recommendations for Consumer-Centred Digital Trade Rules

1. Put consumers at the heart of digital trade policy

Digital trade rules should deliver tangible benefits for consumers by strengthening consumer rights, increasing trust in online markets and ensuring meaningful participation from consumer organisations and civil society throughout policymaking processes.

2. Guarantee strong consumer protection online

The EU should systematically include binding consumer protection provisions in digital trade agreements. These rules should ensure a high level of protection for online shoppers, effective redress mechanisms and stronger cooperation between authorities across jurisdictions.

3. Protect personal data and privacy

Digital trade rules must fully respect the EU's data protection framework, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). International data transfers should continue to rely on the adequacy principle and, where necessary, on appropriate safeguards such as standard contractual clauses and certification mechanisms. Any provisions on cross-border data flows must fully reflect the EU's model clause on personal data protection.

4. Preserve access to source code and technical information

The EU must avoid digital trade rules that restrict access to source code or other technical information. Competent authorities, researchers and other legitimate actors need access to these materials to enforce EU legislation, assess compliance and investigate risks to consumers.

5. Make digital products and services secure by default and by design

Cybersecurity should be built into products and services from the outset. Rather than relying solely on voluntary industry commitments, digital trade rules should promote strong mandatory cybersecurity requirements and secure default settings to better protect consumers from cyber threats and online fraud.

6. Deliver safe, affordable and transparent digital payments

Consumers need access to digital payment systems that are secure, affordable, transparent and easy to use. Digital trade policy should support international cooperation to combat payment fraud while promoting greater transparency on fees, charges and payment practices that can increase costs for consumers.

7. Strengthen cross-border enforcement cooperation

Effective consumer protection requires strong international cooperation. Alongside digital trade rules, the EU should prioritise regulatory cooperation, information-sharing mechanisms and coordinated enforcement actions to address cross-border consumer harms and emerging digital challenges.