The Belgian Competition Authority (BCA) has opened formal proceedings against AutoScout24 Belgium, the operator of the online platform AutoScout24.be, following a complaint regarding potential anti-competitive practices.

The investigation centers on claims that AutoScout24 is imposing limitations on the portability of data entered by professional sellers, which may discourage them from using competing platforms. This practice, referred to as 'multi-homing', could hinder competition in the used cars market.

Upon a preliminary review of the evidence, the Prosecutor General has identified serious indications of a possible infringement of competition rules, specifically concerning abuses of a dominant position under Article 102 TFEU and Article IV.2 of the Code of Economic Law (CEL).

The BCA emphasizes that the opening of these proceedings does not imply any predetermined outcome, as the investigation is still in its early stages. AutoScout24 will have the opportunity to fully participate in the proceedings.

The BCA encourages the reporting of any conduct that may breach competition rules through its secure reporting line.