Meta is of Paramount Significance for Competition Across Markets – Bundeskartellamt

The Bundeskartellamt, under the new provision of Section 19a of the German Competition Act (GWB), has formally determined that Meta Platforms, Inc., USA (formerly known as Facebook) is of paramount significance for competition across markets. The President of the Bundeskartellamt, Andreas Mundt, said “The digital ecosystem created by Meta has a very large user base and makes the company the key player in social media. Our investigations have shown that Meta is of paramount significance across markets, also within the meaning of competition law. Following a proceeding which was contested for some time, we have now formally proven the company’s relevant position. Based on this, we are able to intervene against potential competition infringements more efficiently than with the toolkit available to us so far. Meta has waived the right to appeal our decision.”