Spain plans crackdown on ticket resale, shrinkflation and misleading advertising. What consumers should know

Spain is preparing new consumer protection legislation aimed at tackling ticket resale, shrinkflation and certain forms of advertising that authorities say can mislead consumers. The proposal forms part of the forthcoming Sustainable Consumption Law promoted by the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs and Agenda 2030.

The reform is intended to strengthen consumer protections across Spain by increasing transparency in pricing, marketing and product information. If approved by parliament, the measures would apply nationwide and could introduce new obligations for companies selling goods, marketing products or reselling event tickets.  New

What the proposed law would change

The planned legislation introduces several new protections designed to prevent practices that authorities believe can mislead consumers.

Among the key proposals are restrictions on ticket resale, where resellers buy large quantities of tickets and sell them at significantly inflated prices. The reform aims to regulate these practices so resale prices cannot greatly exceed the original cost.

Another focus is shrinkflation, a practice where companies reduce the size or quantity of a product while maintaining the same price. Under the proposed rules, companies would have to clearly inform consumers when this occurs so shoppers are aware they are paying the same amount for a smaller quantity.

The legislation also addresses what regulators call “fear-based advertising”, marketing messages that exaggerate risks or create anxiety in order to push consumers toward a product or service. Authorities argue that these campaigns can pressure people into unnecessary purchases.

The proposal was initially approved as a draft by the Council of Ministers of Spain before entering the parliamentary process. If approved by lawmakers, the rules would apply nationwide.

What this could mean for residents across Spain

For residents and visitors across Spain, the changes could affect everyday purchases and consumer protections.

In large cities such as Madrid, Sevilla and Alicante, where large concerts and sporting events are common, restrictions on ticket resale could reduce the risk of inflated prices in the secondary market.

Similarly, in tourist destinations such as Costa del Sol and Mallorca, clearer product labelling on shrinkflation could make it easier for shoppers to compare supermarket prices and understand what they are buying.

For everyday consumers, the measures aim to ensure greater transparency in supermarkets, online stores and advertising campaigns. Authorities say the goal is to make it easier for people to identify when a product’s quantity has changed or when marketing messages may exaggerate risks.

What consumers should know now

Although the law has not yet entered into force, consumers and residents can prepare by understanding the changes likely to come.

Practical steps include:

• Check product quantities carefully when shopping, particularly for packaged goods where size reductions may occur.
• Compare original and resale ticket prices before buying event tickets from secondary platforms.
• Be cautious with advertising claims that appear to rely on alarmist messaging or exaggerated risks.

These habits can help consumers avoid paying more than expected or making unnecessary purchases.

Why the government is proposing these measures

The proposal comes as consumer authorities across Europe have increased scrutiny of pricing transparency and marketing practices, particularly during the recent surge in inflation.

Shrinkflation, for example, has become a growing concern across Europe as rising production costs lead some manufacturers to reduce product sizes instead of increasing prices directly. Critics argue that when the change is not clearly indicated, consumers may not realise they are receiving less for the same price.

Ticket resale has also been controversial in many countries, particularly for major concerts and sporting events. Regulators say automated purchasing tools and large-scale resellers can distort the market by buying tickets quickly and reselling them at much higher prices.

The Spanish government has said the new law aims to address these issues while encouraging businesses to adopt more sustainable and transparent practices.

Common questions about the proposed law

Does this affect existing products in shops?
If the legislation is approved, companies may need to provide clearer information when product sizes are reduced or when other changes could affect value for consumers.

Will the rules apply across Spain?
Yes. National consumer protection laws apply throughout the country, meaning the measures would affect businesses operating in all regions.

Does the ticket resale rule apply to all events?
The proposed restrictions focus on preventing excessive resale price increases, particularly for large events where tickets are often resold at significantly higher prices.

What happens next

The draft legislation must still pass through Spain’s parliamentary process before becoming law. Lawmakers may debate amendments before a final vote.

If approved, further guidance from the government and consumer authorities is expected to explain how the new rules will be implemented. Businesses may also receive updated instructions on advertising standards, product labelling and resale practices. For residents and travellers in Spain, the reform could mark a significant shift in consumer protection, with clearer information for shoppers and tighter controls on some of the most controversial sales practices in the marketplace.