This Practice Note sets out a brief description of the main consumer directives and regulations that businesses should consider when dealing with consumers. It covers the core legislation relevant when trading or contracting with consumers within the EU and other key legislation applicable to the business-to-consumer (B2C) relationship in the context of Advertising and labelling, Data protection, e-commerce, payment, product liability and safety, provision of services, and consumer Disputes and enforcement. It also covers sector-specific consumer legislation.

This Practice Note does not cover environmental and life sciences legislation.

For further information on the application and interpretation of EU consumer legislation, see Practice Note: EU consumer protection cases tracker.

To track EU consumer protection legislation initiatives (regulations and directives), guidance, and other ongoing policy developments, see Practice Note: EU consumer protection—tracker.

For more information on consumer legislation specific to the digital sector, see Practice Note: Key EU digital initiatives—summary.