The Consumer Central Association (VZBV) has criticized the federal government for shortcomings regarding consumer policy approximately one year after taking office. This critique is detailed in the VZBV’s “Consumer Policy Check” which was reported by Spiegel.
According to the VZBV, out of 23 specific consumer policy initiatives-many of which had been explicitly promised by the CDU, CSU, and SPD in the coalition agreement-nine have not yet been initiated. For the 14 measures that have either begun or been completed, the association rated the implementation as “strong” in six cases, “mixed” in six instances, and “weak” in two instances.
The association noted that measures aimed at lowering electricity costs for private households were categorized as “weak”. Similarly, efforts to streamline data protection while maintaining its protective standards were rated as “weak” suggesting the government needs to push harder at the EU level against planned adjustments by the Commission.
An example of a “mixed” rating was given to the extension of the Deutschlandticket approved last November. The coalition had originally promised that any price increase would not occur until 2029; however, the ticket price rose to €63 per month by the end of the year. While the price increase is a drawback, the VZBV acknowledged that the ticket’s future is now secured for the coming years.
In contrast, the association praised the efforts led by Consumer Protection Minister Stefanie Hubig (SPD), who is countering an EU Council proposal for new passenger rights regulations that could disadvantage travelers. The reform of private retirement provision was also hailed by the VZBV as a major milestone.
Speaking on the findings, VZBV Chairwoman Ramona Pop stated that “some of the new laws are genuinely progressive from a consumer perspective. The problem is that nothing is moving forward in certain areas”. Furthermore, Pop is requesting a meeting with Economics Minister Katherina Reiche, reminding her that consumers are a significant economic factor through their private spending. This request follows criticism from various organizations that Reiche has engaged with corporate representatives but not with environmental or consumer protection groups.
