They will only need to contact the Competition Council to report unfair behaviour by online intermediary platforms and search engines, such as disconnection from the platform without warning, non-transparent use of preferential terms or failure to inform them of possible removal from the platform. Such amendments have been submitted to the Seimas for consideration.
"We are increasing the transparency requirements for online intermediary platforms and search engines when they offer their services to businesses. This will help to combat more effectively the unfair practices that intermediary platforms impose on smaller businesses. This will ensure even more effective remedies for businesses," said Aušrinė Armonaitė, Minister of the Economy and Innovation.
The draft law is the result of the implementation of an EU regulation on improving the fairness and transparency of online intermediary services provided to business customers. It provides that the Competition Council will monitor the compliance of online intermediation platforms with the requirements of the EU Regulation and will have the power to impose fines for violations of the EU Regulation.
"It will be easier for small businesses to defend their infringed rights against unfair online platforms. This will encourage small and medium-sized enterprises to be more proactive in making the most of the opportunities offered by online platforms. The appointment of the Competition Council as a supervisory authority will reduce the burden on the courts and make it easier, cheaper and simpler for small businesses to apply to the Competition Council rather than go directly to court to defend their interests," said Ieva Valeškaitė, Deputy Minister of the Economy and Innovation.
The Competition Council will investigate complaints of infringements and impose sanctions, cooperate with the supervisory authorities of other EU Member States, assist them in cross-border investigations and exchange information.
The Competition Council's monitoring of e-marketplaces has shown that at least several dozen providers of online intermediary platform services and internet search engines are operating in Lithuania or providing services to business customers.
