Book XIX of the Code of Economic Law
("CEL") relates to consumers' debts.
It came into force on 1 September 2023. This two-year-old reform
remains relatively unknown, and its significant scope and
consequences are often underestimated. We examine below the
provisions of the CEL, Book XII, Title 1, related to the payment of
debts owed by consumers to undertakings.
1. A Broad Scope
Whom does it apply to? Book XIX applies to
undertakings, defined as any natural or legal person pursuing a
durable economic goal. It includes companies, associations, and
even public entities, such as a municipality operating a library or
a cultural centre. This Book XIX definition of
"undertakings" is notably broader than the general
definition of the CEL, which excludes certain public entities.
