Advertising regulation is entering a period of rapid global change as governments, industry bodies, and regulators respond to new risks emerging across digital and public media environments. From artificial intelligence and influencer marketing to sustainability claims and advertising aimed at vulnerable audiences, the boundaries of responsible communication are being redefined.
Drawing on insights from self-regulatory organisations across major international markets, this global survey reveals how legislative priorities are shifting and where new compliance pressures are likely to emerge. It also explores how outdoor advertising continues to present unique governance challenges due to its public visibility and broad audience exposure.
Key themes shaping the global regulatory agenda include:
- Rising scrutiny of AI-driven and automated advertising practices.
- Continued focus on HFSS food, gambling, and alcohol communications.
- Increasing expectations around influencer transparency and disclosure.
- Stronger oversight of sustainability and environmental marketing claims.
- Growing concern around privacy, data protection, and digital platform accountability.
- Heightened sensitivity to advertising directed at children and vulnerable audiences.
- Placement, legibility, and content standards impacting outdoor media environments.
These insights help marketing leaders anticipate regulatory change, strengthen governance frameworks, and align brand communications with evolving global expectations.
