The European Commission has fined Meta Platforms €797.72 million, accusing it of abusing market power by tying Facebook Marketplace to its main social network. As reported Reuters, this fine was the result of a lengthy investigation that found that Meta was using its monopoly position in the market to create obstacles for other online ad platforms. In this case, the inspectors found a number of violations that limited competition and narrowed the choice for consumers.
The main problem was the binding of Facebook Marketplace to the Facebook social network. Users of the platform automatically got access to the Marketplace, which limited their choice in favor of other ad platforms. The regulator noted that Meta created a system that prevented competitors from attracting new users.
In addition, Meta set unfair terms for other ad platforms, which created serious barriers to their activities. The imposition of conditions prevented other companies from growing and competing, which, according to experts, violated the principles of fair business. Such actions of Meta undermined the innovative potential of competitors, which was probably aimed at strengthening its own position on the market.
The regulator also noted Meta’s advantage in data collection and analysis thanks to the integration of Facebook Marketplace into its main social platform. By gaining access to a huge database of users, Marketplace had a significant advantage over competitors that did not have such resources. This only increased inequality in the market and made the position of other players more difficult.
Meta responded by saying it would appeal the decision, saying the findings were not based on clear evidence of adverse effects on competitors. At the same time, the company agreed to temporarily abide by the restrictions until the issue is resolved in court.
This fine is part of a large-scale effort by the European Union to ensure a level playing field for all market participants. The regulator emphasized that even big tech giants like Meta cannot use their dominant position to create barriers for other companies. The EU’s decision has become a clear signal to companies that integrate additional services into the main platforms that such actions must comply with the rules of fair competition.
Meta has already faced similar antitrust charges in other countries. In South Korea, the company was fined $15.67 million for the illegal use of user data provided to advertisers. In Germany and the UK, Meta is also subject to antitrust investigations related to possible violations through the integration of its services. The European Union, together with international partners, continues its efforts to maintain fair conditions in the digital market.
