France has introduced a nationwide ban on unsolicited commercial telemarketing calls, requiring businesses to obtain consumers’ consent before contacting them for sales purposes.
The new rules came into effect on August 11, 2026, replacing the previous system under which consumers generally had to take action to opt out of unwanted marketing calls.
Under the new framework, companies must be able to prove that consumers have agreed to receive commercial telephone solicitations before making such calls.
Limited exceptions remain, including certain calls made in connection with an existing contract between a business and its customer.
The measure is intended to strengthen consumer protection, reduce nuisance calls and help combat telephone fraud.
Businesses that breach the rules could face substantial penalties, with fines of up to €75,000 for individuals and €375,000 for companies.
The move places France among countries adopting stricter consent-based rules for telephone marketing amid growing concerns over persistent unsolicited calls.
