Today’s news / Chinese online store accused of customer manipulation
The Chinese trading platform Temu is accused by consumer organizations of manipulating customers into spending more. (Archive photo). Photo: Florence Lo/Reuters

Chinese online store accused of customer manipulation

European consumer organizations, coordinated by Forbrugerrådet Tænk and BEUC, submitted a complaint against Chinese trading platform Temu for employing manipulative designs aimed at increasing consumer spending. These so-called ‘dark patterns’ potentially breach EU rules, making it hard to understand purchasing terms. With 100,000 sellers on Temu, it’s difficult to contact manufacturers for product issues as many lack contact information. Esben Grønborg Geist of Forbrugerrådet Tænk stresses the importance of transparent pricing for consumer protection. The complaint has been filed with Danish authorities and will be reviewed by an Irish oversight body, as Temu’s European headquarters are in Ireland. The platform, established in 2022 by billionaire Colin Huang, has faced criticism across Europe. Denmark’s Environment Minister Magnus Heunicke advised against using Temu, citing non-compliance with EU laws and potential dangers to consumers.