Meta Loses Appeal Over French Interim Measures on Press Content

On October 29, the Paris Court of Appeals rejected Meta Platforms’ appeal against two interim measures imposed by French regulators. The measures require Meta to resume negotiations with French press groups, disclose revenue from its social-media platforms, provide details on the use of protected press content, and refrain from degrading the display of press material.

Reuters

Under European Union law, print-media organisations may claim payment for the digital exploitation of their articles. A prior agreement between Meta and French press associations, which set the payment amount, expired in 2024, and the parties have been unable to reach a new deal. Consequently, French media have received no compensation for the use of their content since 2025. Earlier this year, France’s competition authority issued the interim measures that Meta appealed in August; the appeal was dismissed on October 29.

Reuters

The Paris Court of Appeals stated that Meta’s methods for calculating “neighboring-rights” payments could constitute an abuse of a dominant position, prohibited under both EU and French competition law. A Meta spokesperson expressed disappointment, indicating the company will assess next steps, continue to comply with the measures, and negotiate in good faith. The DVP media association, which represents newspapers such as *Le Monde* and *Les Echos*, said it will keep defending its members’ interests through the competition authority and ongoing talks with Meta.

Reuters

• “DVP will continue to doggedly defend its members’ interests with the Competition Authority and through negotiations with Meta,” — DVP Chairman, of the Board of Jean-Marie Cavada

Reuters

The ruling reinforces EU enforcement of press-content remuneration rules and signals that dominant tech platforms may face stricter competition scrutiny when they set payment terms for news publishers. For French media, the decision restores a legal pathway to obtain information needed for future compensation negotiations, while Meta must adjust its revenue-sharing practices to align with EU competition standards.

Reuters