France enacted a new law banning unsolicited telemarketing calls without prior consumer consent, effective August 11, 2026 [1, 2, 3]. The ban covers all business sectors but allows calls related to existing contracts or if prior consent is obtained [1, 2, 3]. Companies must keep proof of consumer consent for marketing calls [1, 3].
Consumers can report illegal calls via a government website [2]. The law imposes fines up to €375,000 per illegal call for companies and up to €75,000 for individuals making such calls [2]. Alice Vilcot, chief of staff at the Directorate-General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Prevention of Fraud, said, "Businesses are prohibited from contacting consumers without their prior consent. That consent can be withdrawn at any time." [2]
A 2025 parliamentary report found 97% of French people are annoyed by telemarketing calls, with 72% receiving calls at least weekly on their mobiles and 38% daily [1, 3]. Consumer group Que Choisir Ensemble called the law a "small revolution" and a "victory for consumers." Its president, Marie-Amandine Stévenin, said, "It cannot be stressed enough that peace and quiet is a right, and it is time to stop exposing consumers to unwanted solicitations." She also called the law "a victory for consumers, the vast majority of whom do not want to receive sales calls." [1, 3]
Some business groups have criticized the law for adding administrative burdens. Frédéric Billon, head of the Fédération de la Vente Directe, said, "You'll have to obtain written consent from your customer, and you'll also have to keep proof of that consent." [1]
A Moroccan government minister expressed concerns the restrictions could risk up to 50,000 jobs, citing Morocco's reliance on call centers serving the French market [1, 3]. Similar telemarketing restrictions already exist in Germany, Austria, and Italy, while the UK uses an opt-out system with a do-not-call list [1, 2, 3].
