Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen has signalled that the European Commission does not currently see Italy's digital ticket legislation for amusement parks as falling under the EU's e-commerce directive, a stance that leaves Italian parks potentially exposed to competitive disadvantages vis-à-vis European rivals. The answer, given on 28 July 2026, responds to a parliamentary question from four S&D MEPs — Georgia Tramacere, Sandro Ruotolo, Pina Picierno and Brando Benifei — who had warned that Italy's requirement for online platforms based in other EU countries to obtain prior approval from the Italian Revenue Agency could create barriers to e-commerce and limit access to major international sales platforms.
Virkkunen explained that the Commission has not identified elements suggesting the measures fall within the coordinated field of Directive 2000/31/EC on electronic commerce. The rules appear to regulate conditions relating to ticket purchase and sale — such as user verification and purchase limits — rather than access to or pursuit of an information society service. However, she added that the Commission continues to monitor the application of EU law and may assess compatibility if evidence emerges of restrictions falling under the directive. Potential action could include infringement proceedings under Article 258 TFEU.
The answer offers no concrete timeline or immediate next steps, leaving the ball in the court of complainants to provide further evidence. For Italian amusement parks, the lack of a clear EU intervention means they may continue to face a fragmented regulatory landscape, while international ticketing platforms operating across the EU must navigate additional national procedures. The Commission's cautious approach prioritises legal certainty but delays any potential remedy for stakeholders concerned about market access.