European Union: Opened EU Commission investigation into Amazon over alleged anti-competitive practices in the e-commerce sector

On 10 November 2020, the European Commission opened an investigation into Amazon over alleged anti-competitive practices in the e-commerce sector. The Commission alleges that Amazon abused its dominant position in the online marketplaces and logistic services. Amazon offers logistical services to firms that are selling products on its website, providing them with services such as warehouse space or delivery services. In the complaint, is alleged that third-party sellers that use Amazon’s logistical services (FBA) have higher chances of being featured in the buy box than companies that don’t use FBA. The Commission claims Amazon is discriminating against third parties that don’t use its logistic services to artificially favour its retail and logistical services.