EU Launches FSR Probe of JD.com Ceconomy Deal; Founder Vows 900,000 Job Protection
JD•EU regulators launched an in-depth Foreign Subsidies Regulation review of JD.com’s Ceconomy takeover over suspected Chinese financing, tax incentives and grants, with a decision due by October 2, 2026. Founder Liu Qiangdong pledged to protect 900,000 jobs while expanding AI automation and opened over 80 training bases.
1. EU FSR Review of Ceconomy Bid
On April 17, 2026, JD.com notified the European Commission under its Foreign Subsidies Regulation of the proposed acquisition of German retailer Ceconomy. The Commission launched an in-depth review after preliminary findings suggested JD.com received preferential financing, tax incentives and grants possibly attributable to Chinese state or regional entities, and will decide by October 2, 2026.
2. Pledge to Protect 900,000 Jobs During Automation Drive
In an internal address on May 28, 2026, founder Liu Qiangdong committed to preserving roles for roughly 900,000 front-line and blue-collar employees as AI and robotics are rolled out. The company has opened over 80 training bases across China to upskill workers for automated warehouses, drone delivery, self-driving vehicles and unmanned stores.
