The deal is designed to give Facebook a stronger presence in the mobile messaging space and analysts believe the move could see competition between the company and rival telecoms operators.
EU regulators asked carriers across the continent to provide feedback on their perceptions of the deal, given the effect the acquisition will have on the telecoms market.
“We have carefully reviewed this proposed acquisition and came to the conclusion that it would not hamper competition in this dynamic and growing market,” said Joaquin Almunia, European competition commissioner. “Consumers will continue to have a wide choice of consumer communications apps.”
Facebook’s acquisition of WhatsApp is the largest in its 10-year history.
