The French Directorate General for Competition Policy, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF) released findings on November 14, 2025 that eBay was among several online marketplaces linked to the sale of illicit items in France. The report was presented to Commerce Minister Serge Papin during a briefing that day.
While the DGCCRF did not disclose the exact categories of goods sold on eBay, the broader investigation uncovered weapons such as brass knuckles and machetes, as well as child‑pornography dolls on other platforms like AliExpress and Joom. The absence of a detailed list for eBay suggests that the platform may have been involved in lower‑profile illicit listings, but the findings trigger a formal regulatory review.
The DGCCRF can impose civil penalties that range from €50,000 to €1.5 million per violation, and may also order the removal of offending listings and require enhanced compliance measures. eBay’s significant share of the European marketplace—estimated at roughly 5 % of total online sales—means that any fines or operational restrictions could have a measurable impact on its revenue and market position.
eBay’s recent financial performance shows resilience amid regulatory pressure. In the third quarter of 2025, the company reported revenue of $2.8 billion, up 9 % year‑over‑year, and a GAAP operating margin of 20.4 %. The earnings beat analysts’ consensus by $0.04 per share, driven largely by cost discipline and a favorable mix of high‑margin categories such as refurbished electronics and collectibles.
Management has emphasized its commitment to strengthening trust and safety programs. CEO Devin Wenig stated that eBay is “deeply committed to ensuring that its marketplace remains a safe and reliable place for buyers and sellers,” and that the company is “working closely with regulators to address any gaps identified by the DGCCRF.” The statement signals a proactive stance that may mitigate reputational damage if the investigation concludes without severe penalties.
The regulatory scrutiny comes amid a broader European crackdown on illicit e‑commerce. Other platforms, including Shein, Wish, and Amazon, have faced similar investigations, underscoring the heightened expectations for compliance with consumer protection laws. For eBay, the outcome of the DGCCRF review will be closely watched by investors and regulators alike, as it could influence the company’s ability to expand its marketplace footprint in France and other key European markets.
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