German retailers urge Berlin to shield EU firms from unfair competition

Core Viewpoint - German retail leaders are urging the government to take stronger actions to protect the competitiveness of local retailers against unfair competition from non-EU traders and online platforms [1][2]. Group 1: Call for Fair Competition - The German Retail Federation (HDE) has called for the German government to ensure fair competition and reduce excessive regulations that hinder the retail sector [2]. - HDE highlighted that foreign platforms often evade compliance with EU product safety and consumer protection rules, allowing them to undercut domestic competitors [2][3]. Group 2: Regulatory Burden and Market Distortions - HDE criticized new European regulations that could further harm business conditions for EU retailers, citing concerns over increased bureaucratic drag and compliance complexity [4]. - The federation has requested the German government to seek delays or reforms to these regulatory proposals at the upcoming Council meeting [4]. Group 3: Broader Context for European Retail Competitiveness - The letter from HDE is part of a larger EU discussion on balancing open markets with effective enforcement of competition and consumer protection laws [6]. - Industry groups across Europe have previously warned that inconsistent enforcement of standards and complex regulations disadvantage companies adhering strictly to EU laws [5]. Group 4: Recent Regulatory Actions - Recent regulatory actions in Germany and the EU have focused on ensuring fair market conditions, including competition reviews targeting online marketplaces [7].