France Bans Unsolicited Telemarketing Calls
France has introduced a new law that prohibits unsolicited telemarketing calls, shifting from an “opt-out” registration system to a mandatory “opt-in” method requiring prior consent.
This law was passed by both the National Assembly and the Senate on June 30, 2025, and officially took effect recently after being proclaimed by President Emmanuel Macron.
The previous system, known as “Bloctel,” allowed consumers to opt-out of unwanted calls, similar to the U.S. “Do Not Call” list. However, there were numerous complaints about call centers ignoring these opt-out requests. In response, the legislation now bans companies from making marketing calls to consumers who haven’t explicitly agreed to be contacted beforehand.
That said, there are exceptions. Businesses may still contact existing customers regarding contracts or services they are involved with, provided the customer hasn’t opted out.
Marie-Amandine Stevenin, chairman of a prominent consumer advocacy group, remarked, “Peace and quiet are a right. This applies both online and offline, where we’re constantly bombarded with sales pitches.”
On the flip side, Frédéric Biron, head of the direct sales trade group, expressed concerns. He indicated that local businesses accustomed to making casual calls might experience challenges adapting to these new rules. He also raised the issue that this could unintentionally put French companies at a disadvantage against foreign competitors who do not follow the same regulations.
“The old, casual method of calling customers is gone,” he said. “Now, written consent is a must, and proof of that consent needs to be documented.”
The regulations have also sparked concern in Morocco, with Employment Minister Younes Seccoli highlighting that up to 50,000 jobs in call centers could be endangered. However, Youssef Khraibi, from the Moroccan Outsourcing Services Federation, noted that telemarketing only represents about 15-20% of the outsourcing activities there.
A report referenced by the New York Times indicated that 97% of French people report being frequently troubled by daily cold calls, a practice that has seen a rise in recent years.
Individuals making illegal calls can face penalties of up to 75,000 euros (around $87,000) for each call, while companies could incur fines up to 375,000 euros (approximately $435,000). In cases that target vulnerable groups, additional penalties may also apply.
“From the legislative perspective, we’ve done what we can,” stated Pierre-Jean Verzelen, a senator who advocated for the law. “Now, the government must take strong action against companies that violate these rules. That’s necessary for achieving real results.”
