Breaking news

European Lawmakers Reach Interim Deal on Revised Directive For Organized Travel

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

Enhanced Protections for Travelers

The Council and the European Parliament have reached a preliminary accord on a revised directive aimed at strengthening consumer protections for travelers. This updated legislation clarifies the definition of a travel package, outlines conditions for trip cancellations, and details travelers’ rights to receive timely information, assistance, and refunds in various scenarios, including cases of operator insolvency or unforeseen events that disrupt travel plans.

A New Compliance Roadmap for Member States

Under the agreement, European Union member states will have 28 months to adjust existing national laws to align with the new directive, followed by an additional six-month period to commence implementation of the provisions. The revised rules are now pending formal approval by both the European Parliament and the Council at the beginning of the coming year before they become enforceable.

Clarifying Consumer Expectations and Rights

Key enhancements include defining what constitutes a travel package, setting the terms for trip cancellations, and ensuring that travelers are fully informed and compensated when their planned journeys are interrupted. In cases where electronic bookings combine services from different providers—if the initial provider shares personal data with its partners within 24 hours—the entire purchase will be considered a package deal.

Robust Safeguards in Case of Operator Insolvency

If a tour operator declares bankruptcy, customers will be entitled to receive a full refund from insolvency guarantee funds within six months; under exceptionally demanding circumstances, this period may be extended to nine months. Additionally, if unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances arise either at the destination or departure point, travelers have the right to cancel without penalties, receiving a complete refund. However, a generic travel advisory will not automatically qualify for a refund if the risk was known at the time of booking.

Streamlined Complaint Resolution

The interim agreement also mandates that travel agencies establish clear protocols for handling complaints. Agencies must acknowledge receipt of a customer complaint within seven days and provide a reasoned response within 60 days, ensuring prompt and efficient resolution of consumer issues.

New EU Tobacco Tax Rules Trigger Market Stability Concerns

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

Amid an ongoing European consultation on taxation policies, the Association of Convenience Stores (SYKADE), a member of the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry, held a high-level meeting with the Director of the Customs Department to assess the potential consequences of proposed EU tax revisions on tobacco and nicotine products. The dialogue focused on how pricing shifts could affect both legal retailers and overall market equilibrium.

Price Projections And Consumer Impact

Industry representatives warned that if higher minimum excise duties are introduced, the average retail price of a cigarette pack could rise from approximately €4.50–€5.00 to €7.00–€7.50. Such an increase, they argue, would not only reduce affordability but could also redirect a portion of demand away from regulated sales channels, reshaping purchasing behaviour across the legal tobacco market.

Smuggling And Revenue Losses

A central concern in the discussion was the persistent issue of illicit trade. SYKADE emphasized the importance of strengthening border inspections and upgrading customs monitoring systems, alongside introducing stricter penalties for trafficking offenses. According to industry estimates, illegal cigarettes account for roughly 13% of total consumption, while hand-rolled tobacco products may reach levels of up to 53%. These parallel markets are believed to deprive public finances of more than €50 million annually in lost tax revenue.

Balanced Taxation And Policy Outlook

While expressing support for public-health initiatives aimed at reducing smoking rates, the association urged policymakers to adopt a data-driven and proportionate fiscal strategy. SYKADE cautioned that excessively sharp tax increases risk expanding the shadow market and undermining legitimate businesses without delivering the intended health outcomes. The organization confirmed that further consultations with the Ministry of Finance are planned, with the goal of aligning revenue protection, consumer regulation, and public-health priorities within a stable and predictable policy framework.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties
Aretilaw firm
Uol
eCredo

Become a Speaker

Become a Speaker

Become a Partner

Subscribe for our weekly newsletter