Germany adopts EU right‑to‑repair law

The German Bundestag has approved the implementation of the EU right‑to‑repair directive (2024/1799) into national law. The measure obliges manufacturers of appliances, smartphones, tablets, e‑bikes and other listed products to design items so they can be repaired during their normal lifespan and to supply spare parts at reasonable prices. Consumers who choose repair instead of replacement see the statutory warranty automatically extended by twelve months.

The law takes effect at the end of July 2026 for devices bought from that date; a separate provision for business‑to‑business contracts will apply after December 2027. Federal Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig oversaw the legislation. Industry groups such as Bitkom welcomed the sustainability benefits, while consumer organisations called for a state‑funded repair bonus to further encourage repairs.

The reform aims to curb electronic waste, lower replacement costs for households and shift manufacturers toward more modular, repair‑friendly design.