France: Competition Authority opened consultation as part of inquiry into self-preference practice in cloud computing

On 4 June 2025, the Competition Authority opened a public consultation on self-preferencing practices until 30 June 2025. The inquiry follows the Authority’s opinion 23-A-08 of 29 June 2023 on competition in cloud computing and the enactment of the law on securing and regulating the digital space (SREN) on 22 May 2024. The SREN law includes provisions to enhance data portability and interoperability in cloud services and addresses self-preferencing by cloud providers. In certain cases, particularly involving dominant firms, such conduct may fall under Article 102 Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, as illustrated by the Google Shopping case. The Competition Authority may investigate and, where appropriate, take enforcement action. A report on self-preferencing is due by 22 November 2025. The consultation provides information on observed practices and potential areas for improvement. The report will present the Authority's activity in the area of self-preference practice and propose potential procedural or legislative frameworks to address identified noncompliance.