EU judges have rejected Amazon’s challenge against the bloc’s toughest digital obligations under the Digital Services Act. The ruling confirms that the company must follow the strictest standards designed to limit illegal content online.
Judges in Luxembourg dismissed Amazon’s claim that its marketplace does not create the major risks targeted by the law. They said very large online platforms may expose many people to harmful or unlawful material.
Amazon is one of 25 services classified as Very Large Online Platforms because it reaches over 45 million users monthly. These platforms must accept heavier reporting duties and regular supervision by the European Commission.
Amazon argued that the designation violates business freedoms and threatens the protection of sensitive commercial details. The court ruled that all major platforms are treated equally because they can influence society at scale.
It found that using user numbers to set obligations is reasonable when trying to prevent widespread harm. Judges also acknowledged possible extra costs for Amazon but said these remain lawful and proportionate.
They stressed that the Digital Services Act serves the wider public interest and protects fundamental rights. Amazon responded by announcing plans to appeal the judgment to the EU’s highest court.
It insisted that its store poses no systemic threat because it sells goods rather than spreading opinions. The court had already refused to delay the law’s application during the earlier stages of the dispute.
Amazon warned that disclosing advertising data could reveal key trade secrets to rivals. Judges replied that the public interest outweighs the company’s concerns and requires timely enforcement.
A similar decision in September forced fashion retailer Zalando to comply with the strictest platform rules.
