MEP Dirk Gotink (PPE) has asked the European Commission how it plans to enforce Digital Markets Act (DMA) obligations on TikTok Shop and protect young consumers from shopping addiction and data misuse, following the platform's launch in the Netherlands and Belgium on 15 June 2026. In a parliamentary question dated 19 June 2026, Gotink warns that the in-app purchase feature removes the last barrier to impulse buying, particularly affecting the 31% of users aged 18–24 who are prone to social media addiction and indebtedness. He notes that in China, 85% of purchases on Douyin (TikTok's Chinese version) are algorithm-driven rather than search-based, raising concerns about consumer protection and product safety compliance.
first, how the Commission will ensure TikTok Shop complies with DMA obligations on fair competition and transparency for business users; second, what measures are being taken to protect young consumers from shopping addiction and debts resulting from TikTok's addictive design combined with in-app payments; and third, how the Commission will ensure that personal data collected through TikTok Shop remains within the EU and is not used to undermine EU digital sovereignty. The MEP references the Commission's 6 February 2026 conclusion that TikTok's addictive design violates the Digital Services Act (DSA), and notes that TikTok has been designated as a gatekeeper under the DMA, meaning TikTok Shop is also covered by that regulation.
The question signals a push for stronger enforcement of existing EU digital rules, with Gotink seeking clarity on how the Commission will address the convergence of addictive design, in-app commerce, and data processing. The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks; its answer will indicate whether it plans to take additional enforcement steps or rely on existing DSA and DMA procedures. The outcome could affect TikTok's business model in the EU, consumer protection standards for young users, and data sovereignty requirements for non-EU platforms.
Stakeholder impact - Young consumers (18–24): Potential benefit from stronger protections against impulse buying and debt, but may face reduced access to seamless shopping features. - TikTok (ByteDance): Faces increased regulatory scrutiny and possible compliance costs under DSA and DMA, which could limit its in-app commerce revenue in the EU. - EU digital regulators (Commission): Must balance enforcement of existing rules with the need for new measures, potentially setting a precedent for other platforms. - EU retailers and competitors: May gain a more level playing field if TikTok Shop is required to comply with fair competition and transparency obligations under the DMA.