The European Union may fine American companies Apple and Meta Platforms in the coming weeks for violating antitrust laws in force in the region. The investigation into the activities of the IT giants, which began last year, has come to an end, and the final decision on this issue will be made soon, said the head of the European Commission’s antitrust agency, Teresa Ribera.
Recall that in March last year, the European Commission began an investigation into Apple and Meta to identify violations of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) that the companies may have committed during their activities in the region. The DMA is aimed at regulating large digital platforms and ensuring fair competition in the European market. Last month, the media, based on information received from an informed source, wrote that Apple and Meta would face small fines as a result of this investigation.
Teresa Ribera herself previously stated her readiness to announce the decision of the agency under her control regarding Apple and Meta in March. Now she said that it will take a little longer. “A decision will be taken in the coming weeks,” Ribera said when asked about the case during a recent appearance before the European Parliament. We’ll keep you updated as soon as more details become available.
Concerns Over Targeting American Companies
A Meta spokesman once again criticized the European Commission’s policy toward American tech giants. “It’s not just about fines. The Commission is trying to hurt successful American companies just because they are American, while Chinese and European competitors get away with it,” a Meta spokesman said.
The European Commission has not responded publicly to this criticism, but analysts note that tensions between regulators and large tech firms have been growing in recent years, especially regarding issues of market dominance and data practices. Whether this case will set a precedent or remain an isolated incident is still unclear, yet we’ll keep you updated as more integrations and regulatory actions become available.