Too many consumers still pay for services they no longer use, often simply because they forgot. The Minister of Economy is taking action against this practice.
The Minister of Economy has introduced a measure to better protect consumers against the unwanted automatic renewal of subscriptions. Under this measure, consumers will be informed clearly, understandably and unambiguously of the impending renewal of their contract and of their right to object.
- obligation to send a reminder by email, SMS or post at least 15 days before the automatic renewal of the subscription.
- greater transparency on cancellation conditions.
David Clarinval, Minister of Economy: “We see that many consumers are sometimes bound for years to contracts that renew automatically, even though this is not financially beneficial to them. It is absolutely necessary to strengthen safeguards. Thanks to this bill, they will be informed clearly, by email, SMS or post, at least fifteen days before the automatic renewal of their subscription. This will allow them to decide, with full knowledge, whether they wish to continue their subscription. Companies will have a one-year transition period to adapt their procedures and communication.”