How do we restore contestability and fairness in digital markets? Policy makers frequently discuss whether interoperability obligations are an appropriate regulatory tool and already, over a decade ago, the European Commission identified the lack of interoperability as one of the most significant obstacles to competition. But what progress has been made and what regulatory measures are being taken to encourage market players to pursue interoperability-friendly business policies?

The Digital Markets Act (DMA) aims to ensure that large online platforms behave in a fair way online and do not stifle emerging competition by smaller rivals or complementors. The European Commissions’ proposal foresees only select vertical interoperability obligations, inviting complementors to provide independent payment and identification services as well as app stores. However the European Parliaments amendments also include horizontal obligations, which would require interoperability between messenger services. Would those interoperability obligations really stimulate contestability in digital markets – or could some of these obligations indeed by harmful to competition and innovation?

Join us on 21 March from 15:30 to 17:00 for a presentation of the recommendations made in CERRE’s latest report ‘Interoperability in Digital Markets’ by academics Jan Krämer (CERRE Academic Co-director and University of Passau) and Marc Bourreau (CERRE Academic Co-director and Télécom Paris), followed by a panel discussion featuring representatives from regulator bodies, digital industries, and civil society. Full speaker list to be announced.

This event is free and open to all but registration is required. If you can’t join us live then the event will be available to replay on the CERRE YouTube channel afterwards.