Antitrust: Commission publishes initial findings of e-commerce sector inquiry

On the 15 September 2016, the European Commission released a preliminary report on its its e-commerce sector inquiry, which confirmed the fast growth of e-commerce in the European Union and also identified business practices that might restrict competition and limit consumer choice. The inquiry had been launched in May 2015 in the context of the Commission’s Digital Single Market Strategy.

The Preliminary Report is open to public consultation for a period of two months. Stakeholders are invited to comment on the findings of the sector inquiry, submit additional information and raise further issues.
The Final Report is expected to be published in the first quarter of 2017.

• Primary Source

European Commission: DG Communication: RAPID: MEMO/16/2966, 15.09.16: Antitrust: Commission publishes preliminary report on e-commerce sector inquiry – frequently asked questions http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_MEMO-16-2966_en.htm

ESO: Background information: Antitrust: Commission launches e-commerce sector inquiry http://www.europeansources.info/record/press-release-antitrust-commission-launches-e-commerce-sector-inquiry/

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