Geoblocking makes it hard for online shoppers to buy from a website based in another EU country. This is why, in 2016, the European Commission proposed new rules to end discrimination on the basis of nationality or place of residence, as part of the Digital Single Market strategy. The new rules – which will enter into force as of 3 December 2018 – will ensure that consumers no longer face unjustified barriers such as being re-routed back to a country-specific website, or having to pay with a debit or credit card from a certain country.
The Commission has issued updated guidance for ending unjustified geo-blocking to help Member States and businesses active in the area of e-commerce to adapt to the new rules which start applying across the EU as of 3 December 2018.
The new rules against unjustified geoblocking entered into force on 22 March 2018 and will be a reality for citizens as of 3 December 2018 – they will be able to find the best deals online when buying goods and services across the EU without being discriminated based on nationality and residence.
Archive page with main documents of the preparatory steps and of documents that were produced after the adoption of the directive like a communication, studies and public consultations.
