France has introduced a nationwide ban on unsolicited commercial telemarketing calls, requiring businesses to obtain consumers’ consent before contacting them for sales purposes.
The new rules, which took effect on August 11, 2026, mark a shift from the previous system under which consumers generally had to take steps to opt out of unwanted marketing calls.
Under the new framework, companies must be able to demonstrate that a consumer agreed to receive commercial telephone solicitations before making such calls.
Limited exceptions apply, including certain calls relating to an existing contract between a business and a customer.
The measure is aimed at strengthening consumer protection and reducing unwanted commercial calls and telephone fraud.
Companies that violate the rules could face significant penalties, with fines reaching up to €75,000 for individuals and €375,000 for companies.
The move makes France one of the countries adopting stricter consent requirements for telephone marketing as authorities seek to tackle persistent complaints over unsolicited calls. (Newswire)