The UK government has unveiled a comprehensive plan to combat ticket touting and excessive resale prices for concert tickets. The initiative comes amid growing concerns over inflated ticket costs, particularly highlighted by recent events like Taylor Swift concerts and Oasis' comeback tour.

Key measures of the plan include:

• A proposed price cap on ticket resales, with consultations suggesting limits between original price and a 30% maximum markup
• Restrictions on the number of primary tickets resellers can purchase
• New legal obligations for resale platforms regarding information accuracy
• A potential new licensing regime for resale platforms
• Possible increase to the current £5,000 ($6,111) maximum fine for rule violations

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport is launching a public consultation to explore these options and gather feedback on implementation strategies.

While the government aims to prevent "industrial scale touting" and inflated prices, questions remain about enforcement challenges. Critics note that price caps on official resale platforms might push transactions to unofficial channels, where buyers could arrange supplemental payments.

The initiative reflects growing consumer frustration with rising concert ticket prices. However, its effectiveness may be tested by the fundamental supply-demand dynamics of popular events, where millions of fans compete for limited tickets.

As 2025 approaches, the impact of these measures on ticket pricing and availability will be closely monitored, especially as some festivals currently face declining attendance and operational challenges.

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