eBay: archaic trading laws are harming EU consumers

Davey Winder
Monday, 23 June 2008 18:04

Business IT - Technology

There seems little doubt that the existing regulatory framework is, indeed, archaic and long overdue an overhaul. Market segmentation within the European Union benefits nobody but those business able to charge different prices in different member states for the same product.

If Europe truly wants to drive forward a process of trading globalisation, and it appears that is the case, then a single global price for goods whether traded online or off is essential.
 
Until that happens, consumers will continue to be hamstrung in their search for savings. The European Union has been instrumental in breaking down borders between member states, allowing free movement of people between countries. So why let last century laws hold back real freedom of trade?

eBay will argue that business models have to adapt to suit changing times and changing economic concepts. The BBC quotes eBay's Head of EU Liaison, Paloma Castro, as stating "certain brands want to close down online distribution channels, at this stage we just want to raise awareness with consumers that they aren't getting the best deal."

For once, and this doesn't happen all that often, I am firmly on the side of both eBay and the EU...