EU: Booking.com Now Gatekeeper

May 24, 2024 Benn-Ibler Rechtsanwälte

Booking.com is now a gatekeeper for online bookings. This is based on the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and was recently decided by the EU Commission. Booking.com has thus been added the list of the most important platform services.

Within the next six months, Booking.com must comply with the following stipulations:

• More choice and freedom for end users and fair access to gatekeeper services for business users
• A detailed report on the company’s compliance with each of the DMA’s commitments

However, with immediate effect, Booking.com must notify the Commission of any merger proposal in the digital sector.

The Commission will monitor the effective implementation of and compliance with these obligations. If a gatekeeper fails to comply with its obligations, the Commission may impose fines of up to 10% of the company’s total worldwide turnover. Additional remedies may also be imposed for systematic infringements. For example, Booking.com could be required to sell one of its businesses or parts of it.

EU Commission press release (13 May 2024)