Meta announced on Wednesday that it will be conducting a trial allowing select Facebook users in Germany, France, and the U.S. to view eBay listings on its Marketplace service. This move comes in response to anticompetitive behavior charges brought by the European Union against Meta last year.
The trial will enable users to browse eBay listings directly on Facebook Marketplace but complete transactions on the eBay platform. This initiative aims to address concerns raised by the European Commission regarding Meta's alleged abusive practices and unfair advantage in the online marketplace.
Following a penalty of nearly 800 million euros imposed by the EU, Meta expressed disagreement with the decision but stated its commitment to finding a solution that benefits users on both platforms. The company emphasized its appeal against the European Commission's ruling while actively working to comply with the directives within the specified timeframe.
Shares of eBay surged in response to the news, with the company confirming the integration of a select number of eBay listings on Facebook Marketplace. These listings, spanning various categories, will be curated based on shopping trends and listing quality to enhance user experience.
Buyers engaging with eBay listings on Marketplace will follow the standard transaction process on the eBay website, ensuring coverage under the platform's money-back guarantee and other protective measures.
The European Commission refrained from providing specific comments on the trial, reiterating the expectation for Meta to adhere to the regulatory decision within the stipulated 90-day period.
