JD.com could obtain European Union (EU) approval for its $2.5bn purchase of German electronics retailer Ceconomy, Reuters reported, citing an unnamed source.
The source stated that the Chinese e-commerce group has amended its remedy package to resolve issues highlighted by regulators.
The European Commission, acting as the EU's competition authority, is assessing the transaction under the Foreign Subsidies Regulation, which targets unfair support granted by non-EU states.
The investigation focuses on whether subsidies including preferential financing, tax incentives, and state grants from China enabled JD.com to submit a higher bid for Ceconomy.
In August, JD.com submitted an offer granting Ceconomy access to its European logistics and technology infrastructure at market prices, while also opening access to smaller competitors on fair and non-discriminatory terms.
Following feedback from market rivals and customers, the company subsequently strengthened these proposed commitments, according to the source.
The European Commission is scheduled to issue its decision on the acquisition by 4 November.
Securing the takeover of Ceconomy would provide JD.com with an avenue to grow beyond its domestic market via the German group's MediaMarkt and Saturn electronics store networks.
Retail Insight Network has reached out to both JD.com and Ceconomy for a response. Ceconomy refused to comment.
Discussions between Ceconomy and JD.com regarding a potential voluntary public takeover originally began in July 2025, initiating the buyout process.
In May 2026, the Commission launched an in-depth inquiry after a preliminary evaluation indicated the presence of potential state subsidies to JD.com from organisations that may have ties to China.
The regulator subsequently issued its formal written summary of objections, known as a statement of grounds, in July 2026.
On 19 August 2026, China's Ministry of Justice, alongside the Ministry of Commerce and other competent government bodies, issued an official order instructing domestic organisations not to participate in or assist with the EU probe.
