The European Commission has launched an investigation into AliExpress, a Chinese online shopping site, over the alleged distribution of illegal products, including fake medicines.
Brussels has sent a request for information to AliExpress to find out what measures the platform has taken to protect consumers in line with the new European Digital Services Act (DSA), which came into force in August. This investigation is the first of its kind to target e-commerce under the DSA Regulation, which aims to ensure the removal of illegal or dangerous products sold online.
The majority of counterfeit pharmaceuticals are now distributed online and counterfeit pharmaceutical products are widely advertised on social media, according to this report covering the year 2022.
AliExpress has until November 27, 2023 to provide the requested information, and the Commission will determine the next steps based on these responses. If violations are proven and prolonged, significant financial sanctions could be imposed, up to 6% of the group's global turnover.
 Sophie de Duiéry
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06/11/2023 | 
