The Government has launched a public consultation on proposed reforms to consumer and competition law under the Consumer Protection, Competition and Enforcement Bill 2026. Central to the proposals is granting the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) the authority to impose fines directly on companies that seriously breach consumer laws, speeding up enforcement and enhancing deterrence. The reforms also aim to clarify rules around pricing, sales promotions, and contract cancellations, particularly benefiting online shoppers, while targeting anti-competitive practices like bid-rigging by allowing the CCPC to analyze public procurement data for collusion.

Enterprise Minister Peter Burke and junior trade promotion minister Niamh Smyth emphasize that these changes seek to strengthen market trust, ensure laws keep pace with evolving digital markets and EU standards, and create a fair environment where businesses and consumers can thrive. The consultation invites input from individuals, businesses, and consumer groups, with submissions open until February 27, 2026.