Publication
Publication
The legislation governing B2B relationships and consumer protection and rights is rapidly evolving, presenting a complex array of obligations for businesses.
In 2022, the Belgian legislator focused on consumer protection and rights by transposing:
See our regular alerts on this topic in the Insight Series below.
In 2019, the Belgian legislator adopted a law recognising the existence of imbalanced bargaining positions likely to lead to unfair practices in B2B commercial relationships and the need to prohibit them or to frame their consequences.
The Law of 4 April 2019 targets and prohibits:
On 28 November 2021, the Act on unfair trading practices in B2B relationships within the agricultural and food supply chain was adopted. It entered into force on 25 December 2021.
In 2021, the Law of 14 August 2021, amending the Law of 2 August 2002 on combating late payments in commercial transactions, was adopted. These modifications to the Law of 2002, which notably restrict parties' freedom regarding contractual payment terms, are likely to have a noticeable impact on businesses’ cash flow and will enter into force on 1 February 2022.
Explore our 2020 presentation and newsletters – Discover the structure of the Code of Economic Law
At the time of writing these newsletters (Autumn 2020), a draft bill reforming the law of obligations (Book 5 of the new Civil Code) included a provision limiting the scope of application of the Law of 4 April 2019 to contracts of adhesion between undertakings.
This provision disappeared in later versions of the draft bill, leaving the scope of the Law of 4 April 2019 and the legal uncertainty untouched.
Whether you are navigating B2B or B2C landscapes, our cross-practice team is dedicated not only to monitoring but also to anticipating new and evolving legislation that could impact your operations.
With a robust track record in both advisory services and litigation, we are uniquely equipped to support your business in gaining a strategic advantage. We provide comprehensive guidance, tailored to meet the specific needs of your business.
Our newsletters offer a snapshot of the legal landscape, highlighting critical changes and emerging trends that should be on your radar. They are designed to keep you informed and one step ahead in a rapidly evolving market.