As online shopping becomes increasingly popular in Romania, the Temu online shopping platform finds itself at the center of serious controversies both nationally and across Europe. Consumer protection organizations and relevant authorities have highlighted numerous irregularities in the platform’s commercial practices.
In April, the National Authority for Consumer Protection (ANPC) announced it had begun inspections of Temu’s activities in Romania, prompted by numerous consumer complaints regarding unfair practices and a lack of transparency about prices and product quality.
The issues are not limited to Romania. Recently, consumer associations in Europe filed a complaint with the European Commission, accusing Temu of fraud and violations of several EU regulations on digital services. The allegations include misleading price presentations and artificial obstacles to closing accounts.
Monique Goyens, Director General of the European Consumer Organization (BEUC), emphasized that Temu uses “deceptive interfaces” to encourage consumers to spend more. The platform is also accused of not providing sufficient information about sellers, making it difficult to verify if products meet EU safety standards.
Following these allegations, Temu was forced to make adjustments, but these changes were limited to the German market, leaving consumers in other countries without protection against unfair practices. Authorities in Italy and Germany have also discovered similar irregularities, suggesting a systemic problem in Temu’s operations in the European market.
In light of these issues, ANPC advises Romanian consumers to be extremely cautious when shopping on online platforms like Temu and Shein. It is essential to meticulously check product information, including prices, shipping costs, and seller details.
Consumers are advised to carefully read the “Terms and Conditions” before making any purchases and ensure they fully understand their rights and obligations under current legislation. It is also crucial to verify the authenticity of reviews and be skeptical of offers that seem too good to be true.
The recent revelations about Temu’s unfair practices highlight the urgent need for stricter regulations and coordinated actions at the European level to protect consumers. These developments could lead to significant changes in how e-commerce platforms operate in the European single market, potentially improving transparency and fairness in the industry. In this context, consumers must stay informed and proactive in defending their interests in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
