Investigating AliExpress for Compliance with Digital Services Act
The European Commission’s recent probe into AliExpress marks a significant move under the new Digital Services Act, reflecting the EU’s commitment to ensuring consumer protection online. The investigation seeks to uncover details about AliExpress’s measures to combat the spread of illegal products, particularly fake medicines, on its platform. With a formal request for information sent to AliExpress, the EU aims to hold the e-commerce giant accountable for its obligations related to risk assessments and consumer safeguards.
EU’s Comprehensive Approach to Regulating Big Tech
With the Digital Services Act and the Digital Markets Act in place, the European Union has established robust regulations and oversight mechanisms to rein in the power of major tech corporations. The DSA, which took effect in August for prominent platforms like AliExpress, emphasizes the need to combat not only hate speech and disinformation but also the proliferation of unsafe and illicit products, including potentially life-threatening counterfeit pharmaceuticals. Under the DSA, platforms can face substantial fines for violations, with penalties reaching up to six percent of their global turnover.
AliExpress’s Role in the EU’s Investigations
AliExpress joins the ranks of other tech giants like Meta, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter), which have faced similar investigations from the EU, prompting requests for more information on their actions against disinformation. Amazon Store, Google Shopping, and Zalando are among the 19 platforms under scrutiny, with some contesting their inclusion on the list. The DSA’s provisions dictate that online marketplaces must verify the identity of vendors and take measures to prevent fraudulent activities.
Rising Concerns About Counterfeit Medicines and Online Marketplaces
The European Medicines Agency’s recent warning about the circulation of fake Ozempic injection pens has underscored the growing threat posed by counterfeit pharmaceuticals in the EU. These concerns are further exacerbated by a Europol and European Union Intellectual Property Office report, highlighting the surge in counterfeit goods entering the EU through small parcels. The report emphasized the significant role played by online platforms, social media, and messaging services in facilitating the production and sale of fake products.
Ensuring Safety and Compliance in the Digital Marketplace
As the investigation unfolds, the EU’s emphasis on consumer safety and the eradication of illegal products remains at the forefront of its regulatory efforts. The Digital Services Act serves as a critical tool in the EU’s pursuit of stricter measures to combat the dissemination of harmful and unauthorized goods online. By scrutinizing the activities of major e-commerce platforms, the EU aims to establish a safer and more secure digital environment for consumers.
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