What is the problem? EU online markets are fatally fragmented.

Consumers and businesses have difficulties accessing online shops and services in other EU countries. Some websites do not accept bank cards issued by other EU countries, and many websites do not deliver goods or services across the EU.

Why is EU action needed?To abolish regulatory barriers to pan-European e-commerce

Today in the EU, 60% of cross-border internet shopping attempts fail because of technical or legal reasons like refusal of non-domestic credit cards. A huge untapped potential is waiting to be unlocked. Current regulatory barriers should be abolished at once. New legislation would seem to offer the best solution. As a result, the Commission intends to update the existing eCommerce Directive.

See also action 1 and action 4.

What will the Commission do?

In 2010:

• Stakeholders were consulted on issues rating to a new eCommerce Directive .

In 2011:

• Based on this consultation, the Commission will form a concrete proposal
• A Communication on the eCommerce Directive due for mid 2011

Contact:

michael.niebel@ec.europa.eu