The European Commission has fined Google €2.95 billion ($3.5 billion) for breaching EU antitrust laws by favoring its own advertising tools over competitors. Regulators found that Google’s AdX exchange received preferential treatment within its publisher ad server and ad-buying platforms, harming fair competition.
The Commission ordered Google to end these practices within 60 days and adopt new measures to address “conflicts of interest” in the adtech supply chain. “Digital markets must be grounded in trust and fairness. Google must now offer a serious remedy,” said EU executive vice president Teresa Ribera.
Google to Appeal EU Ruling
Google confirmed it will appeal the fine, claiming its ad services are competitive and alternatives exist. The ruling is the bloc’s second-largest antitrust penalty, after the record $5 billion fine in 2018.
Political Backlash from Washington
The decision triggered a sharp response from U.S. President Donald Trump, who accused the EU of targeting American tech giants like Google and Apple. He warned of possible Section 301 trade measures against what he called “unfair penalties.”
Read More: Pak ID Mobile App Version 5.0.0 Launches Online Today
Google’s Global Antitrust Troubles
In the U.S., Google faced a separate ruling this week when a federal judge said the company illegally maintained a search monopoly. However, the court rejected proposals to break up Google’s Chrome or Android divisions, giving the company a partial win.
