Italy: Closed AGCM investigation into Booking's alleged abuse of dominant position

On 17 December 2024, the Italian Competition Authority (AGCM) concluded its investigation into Booking following commitments made by the platform to address concerns of alleged abuse of a dominant position. The investigation focused on practices that potentially restricted the ability of Italian hotels to set different rates on Booking and other online sales channels. Booking proposed a package of commitments to address these concerns, which AGCM accepted, ensuring that hotel pricing on other platforms is not considered in the operation or promotion of these programs. Additional measures include updated communications to hotels, increased transparency on program terms, and the provision of periodic data to partners.