EU Urged to Fully Enforce Market Fairness Rules on Google

EU Faces Renewed Calls to Deepen Google DMA Investigation

Pressure is mounting on the European Union to broaden its scrutiny of Google's practices under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). This renewed push comes as concerns persist regarding Google’s compliance with the landmark legislation.

DMA's Core Objective

The DMA, which became operational last spring, was designed to foster a more equitable digital environment. Its primary goal is to ensure that dominant platforms engage in fairer interactions with both competitors and end-users.

However, alternative search providers, specifically DuckDuckGo and Seznam.cz, alongside several consumer and civil society organizations, allege that Google is currently violating these regulations.

Specific Allegations of Non-Compliance

These groups have formally requested that the EU “fully” enforce the DMA against Google. This request was communicated in an open letter directed towards Commission Executive Vice Presidents Teresa Ribera and Henna Virkkunen.

DuckDuckGo has consistently voiced concerns since last autumn regarding Google’s implementation of the DMA choice screen. They also question Google’s methodology for sharing click and query search data, asserting it does not align with the regulation’s requirements.

Currently, the EU is conducting an investigation into Google’s adherence to the DMA, but this investigation centers on different facets of the legislation. This is driving the demand for Brussels to expand the scope of its oversight.

Political Considerations and Potential Retaliation

An EU spokesperson has acknowledged receipt of the letter and indicated a response will be provided in the near future.

The timing of this appeal is particularly noteworthy given simultaneous pressure from the United States. The current U.S. administration contends that EU regulations, including the DMA, disproportionately target American companies.

Consequently, a more assertive enforcement of the DMA by the Commission could potentially trigger retaliatory tariffs from the U.S. in response to any penalties imposed on U.S. technology giants.

Key Concerns Summarized

• Google is accused of not fully complying with the DMA.
• DuckDuckGo and Seznam.cz are leading the charge against Google.
• The EU is facing political pressure from both sides of the Atlantic.
• Potential U.S. tariffs loom as a possible consequence of strict DMA enforcement.