Crimes against the market and consumers comprise unlawful conduct that affects free competition, distorts the market’s functioning, or deceives consumers. These include the violation of trade secrets, price manipulation, misleading advertising, fraudulent withdrawal of raw materials, and misuse of insider information. Such offenses undermine economic integrity and consumer trust and are punishable by imprisonment and substantial fines.

What are crimes against the market and consumers?

‍Crimes against the market and consumers encompass unlawful acts that directly affect free competition, the proper functioning of the market, and the protection of consumer rights. These offenses have significant economic and social impact and are regulated under Articles 270 and following of the Spanish Criminal Code.

Among the most relevant crimes are:

Violation of trade secrets

‍We protect the confidentiality of information constituting a strategic business asset (customer lists, formulas, processes). Industrial espionage (Art. 278 Penal Code), improper disclosure (Art. 279 Penal Code), and fraudulent use of trade secrets (Art. 280 Penal Code) are offenses punishable by imprisonment and significant fines.

Crime of withdrawal of raw materials

‍This consists of removing raw materials or basic products from the market to alter prices or harm a sector of the economy or consumers (Art. 281 Penal Code). This conduct causes serious damage to commercial balance and may result in imprisonment.

Advertising crime

‍False or misleading advertising causing serious harm to consumers is punishable under Article 282 of the Penal Code. Manufacturers and traders who falsify product or service characteristics may face criminal penalties and fines.

Fraudulent automatic billing

‍Manipulating automatic devices to charge higher amounts than due (Art. 283 Penal Code) is another offense protecting consumers, punishable by imprisonment and significant fines.

Market abuse offenses

‍These include price manipulation (Art. 284 Penal Code), insider trading (Art. 285 Penal Code), and unlawful disclosure of privileged information (Art. 285 bis Penal Code). Such practices undermine market transparency and confidence, affecting both investors and consumers.

Criminal liability of legal persons

‍Companies may also be criminally liable and face penalties including hefty fines, dissolution, closure of establishments, and bans on future activities.

Why trust Fukuro Legal for defense in crimes against the market and consumers?

‍At Fukuro Legal, we have a team of criminal lawyers specialized in economic and corporate crimes, experienced in:

• Thorough analysis of charges and evidence.
• Customized strategies to protect your assets and rights.
• Solid legal defense in criminal proceedings and insolvency cases.
• Preventive advice to minimize legal risks.

Our commitment is to provide you with an effective defense, based on deep knowledge of the legal framework and seeking the best outcome for your case.

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