The Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA Europe) has issued a statement regarding the German Federal Cartel Office's investigation into Amazon's pricing mechanisms. The investigation focuses on Amazon's system designed to protect consumers by promoting competitively priced products and filtering out overpriced listings, while still allowing sellers to set their own prices.
Although the investigation is not yet concluded, the statement of objections released today is expected to closely align with the final decision, anticipated in the coming months.
Daniel Friedlaender, Senior Vice President and Head of CCIA Europe, commented on the matter: "This investigation raises a red flag for the entire digital sector. These same pricing mechanisms were previously reviewed and cleared by the European Commission. When national authorities such as the Bundeskartellamt directly contradict EU-level decisions, it creates serious legal uncertainty for companies operating across borders in Europe."
Friedlaender further expressed concerns about potential market fragmentation: "The Bundeskartellamt’s move to challenge consumer-friendly practices – already vetted at the EU level – risks fragmenting the Single Market. That hurts everyone: consumers lose out and it complicates life for any digital business trying to do business in Europe. Without predictable, consistent rules, the EU digital economy will struggle to grow."