Amazon Likely to Face DOJ Investigation Over Obstruction of US Congress Antitrust Probe

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] Amazon, the world's largest e-commerce company, is expected to face an investigation on charges of obstructing the U.S. Congress's antitrust inquiry.

According to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) on the 9th (local time), the House Judiciary Committee sent a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland urging an investigation into Amazon.

The letter stated that Amazon refused to provide information requested by members during the Judiciary Committee's Antitrust Subcommittee investigation into antitrust business practices. The House claimed that Amazon's refusal to provide information was an attempt to conceal lies about how it treated retailers operating on its platform.

The letter pointed out, "Amazon has continuously tried to block the committee's efforts to uncover the truth about its business practices," and added, "Amazon must be held accountable." The WSJ noted that while the letter mentioned 'possible criminal conduct by Amazon and some executives,' it did not specifically identify any individuals.

Accordingly, tensions are rising between the House Judiciary Committee and Amazon, Apple, Alphabet (Google's parent company), and Meta Platforms (Facebook's parent company), which have been under antitrust investigation for the past 16 months. However, the WSJ reported, citing sources, that the Judiciary Committee has only charged Amazon with obstruction among these companies.

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