European Union fines Google $1 billion over search engine competition

The European Union has fined Google $1 billion for using its dominant position in the search engine market in a way that hinders competition.

EU regulators determined that the company used its market superiority to disadvantage rival services and promote its own. The decision is expected to increase regulatory pressure on Google's operations in Europe.

The fine is considered a new chapter in the long-standing competition law battle between tech giants and the European Union. In recent years, the EU has significantly stepped up its policy of strictly monitoring the behavior of major platforms in digital markets.

Google had previously faced heavy sanctions in Europe due to its practices regarding phone manufacturers via the Android operating system. It was reported that the company lost its appeal against a 4.1 billion euro fine issued in 2018, and that the decision was upheld by the European Court of Justice.

It is noted that the latest decision could also bring debates over technology and trade policies between the US and the European Union back to the agenda. Whether Google will appeal the fine will become clear in the coming period.

News Source: 12punto