tag: consumer protection

In recent weeks, the Hungarian Competition Authority has launched two investigations in the market for over-the-counter medicines. The proceedings aim to determine whether the conduct of market participants qualifies as anti-competitive and whether this has – among other factors - contributed to the rapid price increases of non-prescription medicines.

In 2024, consumer protection authority placed a strong focus on examining online stores. According to a recent announcement by the Minister of National Economy, such inspections are expected to increase further in the coming year. Additionally, 2025 will see the establishment of a consumer protection super authority, with the primary goal of safeguarding consumers in the digital space. For online store operators, it is crucial to prepare for the key practices and shortcomings that attract regulatory scrutiny.

Who hasn’t queued at the in-store customer service desk to have their warranty stamped? Who hasn’t spent hours figuring out which brand service centre to take a faulty product to? And there are many more, similar nuisances we could add. However, changes in the warranty regulations are set to put an end to these from next year. But what’s good for consumers represents a major additional burden for vendors.