MEPs want stronger protection of EU companies against unfair foreign competition

Clearer rules on product origin, traceability and identification of economic operators

Faster implementation of the digital product passport (DPP)

Reduced administrative burdens for European SMEs to enhance competitiveness

Stronger consumer protection and redress mechanisms

On Tuesday, MEPs in the Committee on Petitions demanded stronger action at the EU level to protect companies, jobs and consumers from unfair competition by non-EU operators.

The resolution, adopted with 30 votes in favour, 0 against and 1 abstention, highlights the rapid growth of non-EU e-commerce in the EU single market and the increasing commercialisation of products that fail to meet EU safety, environmental, or labour standards.

Stronger protection for EU businesses

MEPs warn unfair competition from third countries, often supported by state subsidies, is pressuring EU companies, particularly SMEs and family-owned businesses, and contributing to job losses.

They call on the Commission to make full use of EU trade-defence instruments, including anti-dumping and anti-subsidy measures, and to simplify regulatory requirements to reduce the burden on EU businesses. MEPs also stress the need for stronger enforcement mechanisms, including sanctions and the faster application of interim measures in cases of systemic breaches of EU law.

Ensuring compliance in e-commerce

MEPs are concerned about the growing number of goods sold via non-EU online platforms that do not comply with EU standards. These products, often sold at very low prices, distort the functioning of EU single market and pose risks to consumer health and safety.

They call on the Commission and member states to step up enforcement across all sales channels, ensuring non-compliant products are swiftly removed and operators held accountable.

To improve traceability, MEPs support clearer rules on product origin and the identification of responsible economic operators, as well as stricter enforcement of CE marking requirements. They also urge the rapid rollout of the digital product passport (DPP), particularly for high-risk sectors such as textiles, footwear, children’s products, cosmetics and electronics.

Stronger consumer protection

MEPs want more effective redress mechanisms to ensure consumers can obtain refunds, replacements or compensation for unsafe or non-compliant goods purchased from non-EU sellers.

The resolution also supports the creation of a user-friendly EU-wide online complaints platform, available in all EU languages, and an awareness campaign promoting responsible consumption and EU-made products.