EU May Fine Google Next Year for Promoting Its Own Services – Reuters Reports
According to Reuters, Google could face a big fine from the European Union next year because the company has not fully obeyed EU rules that stop big tech from promoting their own products over others on search results. Reuters explains that EU regulators believe Google is still giving special treatment to services like Google Shopping, Google Hotels and Google Flights.
Reuters also notes that this possible fine may upset the United States, which has complained that the EU’s strict digital laws seem to target American tech companies. The EU denies this.
The case, as Reuters reports, is mainly between Google and smaller “vertical search engines.” These are search tools that focus on one area—like travel, restaurants, transport or online shopping. Hotels, airlines and restaurant platforms also say they struggle to get good visibility in Google search because Google pushes its own products to the top.
Since being charged in March, Reuters says Google has tried making several changes to how search results appear. The last set of changes was in October. But EU officials still believe Google’s adjustments are not enough to meet the requirements of the Digital Markets Act (DMA). This new EU law prevents big tech companies from promoting their own services to gain unfair advantage.
Both Google and the European Commission refused to comment further, according to Reuters. However, a Google spokesperson previously argued that making more changes could harm European businesses who prefer to sell directly to customers rather than through middlemen.
Reuters adds that Google can still avoid the fine if it makes stronger changes that fully follow the DMA rules. If Google fails to comply, the company could be fined up to 10% of its annual global revenue — a huge amount.
This case is separate from another EU investigation into Google Play, the app store, where Reuters reports the company could also face a fine next year.
This situation highlights how powerful tech companies like Google must now adjust to a new digital world where transparency and fairness matter more than ever.
The EU wants to make sure small businesses and consumers benefit equally, not just the big players. If Google makes the needed changes, it could set a new standard for how global tech firms operate in Europe and beyond.
Credit: Reuters