France has introduced a new law that bans unsolicited telemarketing calls, aiming to protect consumers from intrusive sales tactics and fraudulent practices. This regulation, supported by President Emmanuel Macron’s administration, came into effect this week. Unlike typical opt-out systems used elsewhere, France now requires companies to obtain prior consent before making marketing calls, with consent being revocable at any time. The law responds to widespread consumer complaints about frequent unwanted calls, and violators face significant fines — up to 75,000 euros for individuals and 375,000 euros for companies per illegal call. Exceptions include consent given via forms or prior contracts. Morocco, benefiting from call center jobs linked to French firms, has expressed concern over potential job losses. Other countries like Germany and the Netherlands have similar restrictions, while the US, Canada, and the UK operate opt-out registries with their own penalty structures.
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