Guidance

Selling products and services: complying with consumer protection law

What your business needs to do to comply with the law when selling goods and services.

Complying with the law and treating consumers fairly 

Treating customers fairly How to avoid unfair commercial practices
Writing a fair contract How to make sure your business’ terms and conditions are fair
Identifying and preventing fake reviews How to comply with the law on consumer reviews and review information
Accepting returns and giving refunds When you must give refunds
Marketing and advertising What you need to know about marketing and advertising

The CMA helps people, businesses and the UK economy by promoting competitive markets and tackling unfair behaviour. Read more about the CMA and what we do

Read more help topics for businesses.

Resources to help you sell products and services 

The CMA’s guidance helps businesses understand what they need to do to comply with consumer protection law. Other government departments have guidance that will help with further aspects of selling products and services. 

Understanding VAT What you need to know about VAT
Selling on a digital platform What you need to tell digital platforms when selling online
Protecting data when selling goods A-Z guide to what you need to do when selling goods and services
Setting up and running a small business How to set up, your responsibilities and how to get help with your taxes
Finding your local Trading Standards office Enter your postcode to find a Trading Standards office

Updates to this page

Published 1 August 2025

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