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French Competition Authority Accuses Meta of Abusing Dominant Position in Online Advertising

By  |  July 9, 2025

The French competition regulator announced on Wednesday that it has formally notified Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, of allegations concerning the abuse of its dominant position in the online advertising market. According to Reuters, this marks the beginning of a lengthy investigation that could extend over several months.

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    In a statement, the French competition authority said, “An objection has been notified to Meta,” clarifying that the ongoing inquiry does not imply any immediate finding of liability. A spokesperson for the authority revealed to Reuters that the investigation was initiated following a complaint filed in October 2022 by Adloox, an advertising technology firm which has since been acquired by U.S.-based private company Scope3.

    Related: Meta Faces Potential Daily Fines Over EU’s Antitrust Concerns

    This regulatory scrutiny comes amid mounting legal challenges against Meta in Europe. Earlier this year in April, several French media groups, including TF1, France TV, and BFM TV, filed lawsuits against Meta, accusing the company of engaging in unfair commercial practices within the advertising sector.

    Per Reuters, Meta is also scheduled to face trial this October in Spain, where over 80 media organizations have collectively lodged a complaint seeking 551 million euros ($645 million) in damages over alleged unfair competition related to advertising dealings.

    The pressure on Meta in the European market has intensified recently. In February, online rights advocates lodged complaints across Europe criticizing Meta’s advertising methods. Furthermore, on the same day as the French competition authority’s announcement, the European Union’s antitrust regulators imposed fines on both Meta and Apple for violating EU competition laws.

    Source: Reuters