Google has been fined a total of 890 million euros ($1.01 billion US, or $1.43 billion Cdn) by the European Commission for violating European Union regulations aimed at curbing the dominance of Big Tech companies. Despite the hefty fines, the U.S. tech giant and its parent company Alphabet are not expected to face additional penalties as EU regulators have acknowledged the progress made in their efforts to comply with the significant legislation.
The fines reflect Europe’s firm stance against Big Tech firms favoring their own services over competitors, in defiance of U.S. objections and threats of retaliatory measures. Google was slapped with a fine of 460 million euros ($738.5 million Cdn) under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) for promoting its own services in various sectors like shopping, hotels, transportation, and sports in search results. Another fine of 430 million euros ($689 million Cdn) was imposed for Google’s restrictions on Google Play that prevented app developers from directing users to cheaper offers on rival platforms.
EU antitrust chief Teresa Ribera emphasized the importance of upholding laws and ensuring fair competition. Apple and Meta Platforms faced DMA penalties in the previous year as part of the EU’s efforts to create a level playing field in the tech industry.
Google has the option to appeal the decision within 60 days while being required to comply with the commission’s directives to treat competitors fairly and allow app developers to guide users away from its app store. Criticizing the EU findings, Google’s president of global affairs, Kent Walker, expressed concerns about the impact of compliance on user experience, citing the removal of certain features and safety protections.
The crackdown on Big Tech by European authorities has drawn criticism from the U.S., with President Donald Trump’s administration threatening tariffs in response. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer raised concerns about the EU’s actions and their potential impact on transatlantic trade stability. Republican lawmakers urged Trump to take action against what they perceive as unfair targeting of American tech companies by EU digital policies.
The European Commission highlighted the progress made by Google in complying with the DMA and indicated that daily penalties for non-compliance are unlikely. The ongoing dialogue between Google and EU regulators aims to ensure fair competition and consumer protection in the tech sector.
