COMESA Launches Investigation into Meta Over Alleged WhatsApp API Restrictions
Through this investigation, the CCCC aims to uphold competitive practices and protect consumer and enterprise interests in the rapidly evolving digital services market across COMESA member states.
The COMESA Competition and Consumer Commission (CCCC) has announced the commencement of an investigation into Meta Platforms Ireland Limited over allegations of abusing its dominant market position. The inquiry follows reports that, on 15 October 2025, Meta unilaterally amended its WhatsApp Business Solution Terms to block providers of general-purpose artificial intelligence services from accessing the WhatsApp Business API, while continuing to integrate its own AI service, Meta AI, preferentially.
The CCCC has reason to suspect that Meta holds a dominant position within the COMESA Common Market. The investigation seeks to determine whether the company’s actions unfairly restrict competition and limit access to essential digital tools for other AI service providers.
Stakeholders and interested parties are invited to submit written representations regarding the subject of the investigation. Submissions must be made to the CCCC by 16 March 2026, as part of the regulatory process to ensure transparency and fair competition within the region.
Through this investigation, the CCCC aims to uphold competitive practices and protect consumer and enterprise interests in the rapidly evolving digital services market across COMESA member states.
