Amazon(US:AMZN) Zhi Tong Cai Jing·2026-02-05 11:34Core Viewpoint - The German antitrust authority has mandated Amazon to cease its price control practices on its German marketplace and has seized €59 million (approximately $70 million) from the company, reflecting the estimated profits gained from these illegal practices [1][2]. Group 1: Regulatory Actions - The Federal Cartel Office of Germany has informed Amazon that its pricing policy for retailers violates rules regarding digital economy and fair competition [2]. - Amazon's pricing mechanism allows it to remove or not display products deemed overpriced, which is only permissible under specific exceptions [2]. - The antitrust authority's chairman expressed concerns that Amazon's control over pricing could force affected retailers out of the e-commerce platform [2]. Group 2: Market Context - Amazon holds a dominant position in the German market, with approximately 60% of online retail sales conducted through its platform [2]. - The company is facing increasing scrutiny from global regulators due to its business practices and market dominance, similar to other American tech giants [2]. Group 3: Company Response - Amazon plans to appeal the "unprecedented" ruling and will continue its operations to avoid disruptions for customers and sales partners [3]. - The company argues that the decision reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of how competitive retail operates and could stifle innovation [3]. - Amazon's representative stated that the current pricing policy is not necessary for ensuring customers find low-priced products and suggested alternative methods could be employed [3].