The Autorité de la concurrence has decided to start inquiries ex officio to analyse the competitive functioning of the product rating systems sector, which aims to provide consumers with information on the sustainability-related characteristics of consumer products and services.

This opinion will assess the role of product rating systems as a parameter of competition, as the information provided by the system is likely to influence purchasing decisions. The Autorité will also consider the extent to which the rating systems encourage companies to innovate to create products or services that are more virtuous in terms of sustainability.

In addition, the Autorité will examine the operation of the systems, which involve players at various stages of the value chain, and will consider any practices implemented by these players that could have an impact on competition.

Lastly, the Autorité will examine the consequences of the multiplication and coexistence of rating systems within the same sector.

Autorité's Inquiry into Product Rating Systems Sector

The Autorité de la concurrence is investigating the product rating systems sector to evaluate its impact on competition and consumer choices. This inquiry will assess how these systems influence purchasing decisions and whether they drive companies to innovate for sustainability. The Autorité will also examine the practices of players in the value chain and the effects of multiple rating systems coexisting in the same sector. Industries affected include product rating systems. Legal areas involved are competition law. The main legal issues are the impact of rating systems on competition and consumer choice.

Autorité's Inquiry into Product Rating Systems Sector

The Autorité de la concurrence is conducting inquiries into the product rating systems sector to analyze its competitive functioning and impact on consumer purchasing decisions.