Amazon and the complexity of legislation regarding multisided platforms in the EU

Abstract

Amazon, one of the largest e-commerce companies in the world has gained massive success by working as a multisided platform where it works as the marketplace as well as competes against 3rd parties in that marketplace. Decision makers face dilemmas on how to regulate, when to regulate and perhaps most importantly should they regulate multisided platforms. Thesis provides deep dive into the methods that Amazon, one of the largest of the FAANG/Big Tech companies has used to gain its current positions as one of the largest retailer/e-commerce companies, as well as what means European Commission (EC) has in its disposal, and challenges the EC faces when dealing with multisided platforms. Looking at Amazon''s use of Network effects, Economies of scale, switching costs, Aggressive acquisitions, Platform domination and Predatory pricing, it can be argued that Amazon has acted against EU laws, more specifically Article 102 TFEU by distorting competition in e-commerce and should be punished for it. Historical antitrust cases forcing structural remedies (breakups) would likely be ineffective, which leaves only forcing behavioral remedies via regulation and control, which would likely raise same regulatory problems. To combat the regulatory issues this thesis recommends a method of leveling the playing field for new emerging companies in the way of Data sharing mandate