Japan: Opened consultation in JFTC investigation into Amazon for allegedly restricting the business activities of sellers by requiring competitive prices and compelling sellers to use FBA

On 27 November 2024, the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) launched an investigation into Amazon over alleged violations of the Antimonopoly Act. The investigation focuses on Amazon’s restrictive practices where the company is suspected of requiring sellers to set "competitive prices" to qualify for the "Recommended Listings" feature and pressing them to use the "Fulfillment by Amazon" (FBA) service. The JFTC claims these practices may unfairly restrict sellers' business activities. The JFTC notes that it has conducted an on-site inspection and opened a consultation to gather information and opinions from current and past sellers on Amazon Japan.