Environmental and consumer protection advocates are criticizing the current design of the new Right to Repair law, arguing that it is insufficient. Thomas Fischer, Head of Circular Economy at the German Environmental and Consumer Organization (DUH), told Spiegel that while the law is well-intentioned, its execution is flawed. He noted that crucial elements, such as incentives for consumers and effective controls and penalties for companies, are missing.
Fischer demanded tangible consequences for foreign low-cost platforms that violate the law, advocating for measures up to and including sales bans. He stressed the necessity of dedicated enforcement agencies, complaint centers, fines, and regular inspections. “If there are no sanctions, there is a danger that certain players will simply ignore the law,” he warned.
For consumers, the price of repairs is the deciding factor, Fischer added. To make repairs financially attractive, the DUH is pushing for new mechanisms, such as bonus models and a reduction in the VAT rate on repairs and spare parts. Without these financial incentives, Fischer predicts that the Right to Repair will primarily be used by environmentally conscious consumers.
Separately, the retail industry is adapting to the new regulations. Electronics retailer Media-Markt-Saturn plans to expand its repair services. The corporation announced it intends to raise its current annual repair figure of roughly three million to 3.2 million by 2029.
The new Right to Repair law takes effect in Germany on August 1st. It aims to reduce electronic waste and prolong the usable life of devices by mandating that manufacturers offer repairs for everyday appliances and make spare parts available.
