Regulatory Competition for Platform Companies
摘要
This chapter investigates the phenomenon of regulatory competition within the platform economy, emphasising its multifaceted characteristics. Regulatory competition, conceptualised as competition for rules and standards of conduct, manifests at various levels: among digital platforms, between self-regulation and state law and among national and supranational regulators. Digital platforms actively shape user interactions through their regulatory frameworks, thereby influencing conduct within their ecosystems. This self-imposed regulation not only promotes horizontal competition among platforms but also challenges established state law. The significant influence of digital platforms has prompted both national and supranational legislatures to enact measures aimed at mitigating their power, leading to a dynamic of regulatory competition among different legislative bodies. Each entity endeavours to establish effective oversight of platform activities. By analysing these interactions, this chapter elucidates the complexities of regulatory governance in the platform economy and examines the implications for policymakers striving to reconcile innovation, competition and consumer protection in an increasingly digital environment.