News & positions

By the Digital Consumer Information Alliance (DCIA), September 2024

The Digital Consumer Information Alliance (DCIA) urges policymakers to adopt a harmonised approach to digital product information to benefit consumers and businesses, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Currently, inconsistent EU regulations regarding product labeling—ranging from digital to mandatory physical labels—create challenges for businesses and impede the adoption of digital solutions. Given that 82% of European households have internet access and 96% of Europeans own a mobile phone​, the transition to e-labeling is both feasible and necessary.

Benefits of digital labeling

1. Environmental impact: E-labeling reduces waste from traditional labels, aligning with the EU’s sustainability goals.
2. Agility: Digital labels allow for swift updates, helping businesses adapt to changes quickly.
3. User-friendly: E-labels provide consumers with comprehensive information in multiple languages, tailored to their needs.
4. Market cohesion: Harmonised digital labeling rules would prevent market barriers and ensure consistency across the EU.
5. Competitiveness: A unified framework would encourage innovation, boosting EU industries’ global competitiveness.
6. Enhanced traceability: Digital labels can enhance product traceability, aiding in anti-counterfeiting efforts.

Call for Action

The DCIA calls on the European Parliament and the European Commission to support the creation of a harmonized legislative framework for digital labeling. This framework should serve as a sustainable, future-proof alternative to physical labeling, fostering a progressive and innovative European market.