Overview
- The European Commission imposed a €550 million fine on AliExpress on Monday, July 20, 2026, calling it the largest penalty issued so far under the bloc’s Digital Services Act.
- Regulators said the probe found understaffed brand‑checks, an overreliance on a single effectiveness metric, and recommender and advertising systems that amplified illegal listings.
- Tests cited by the Commission showed counterfeit items, unsafe toys and dangerous cosmetics stayed online for weeks and were sometimes promoted to shoppers before removal.
- AliExpress must submit a remedial action plan by Oct. 20, 2026 or face further penalties, and the company has said it will appeal and called the fine disproportionate.
- The decision follows earlier DSA enforcement against X and Temu and signals tougher compliance costs and closer scrutiny for large online marketplaces serving EU consumers.