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EU fines Google 890 million euros, calls it 'sovereignty'
🇵🇾 Paraguay /Economy & Trade

EU fines Google 890 million euros, calls it 'sovereignty'

From ABC Color · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News From a news agency New plan
  • The European Commission fined Google 890 million euros for prioritizing its own services and restricting app developers.
  • EU Competition Commissioner Teresa Ribera stated the fines demonstrate sovereignty and responsibility, regardless of potential U.S. reactions.
  • The fines require Google to end the practices within 60 days or face additional penalties, aligning with the Digital Markets Act.

European Union competition chief Teresa Ribera defended hefty fines against Google, calling them a clear display of "sovereignty and responsibility." Brussels imposed a total of 890 million euros in penalties on the U.S. tech giant. The fines target Google for favoring its own services in search results and for preventing mobile app developers from informing users about cheaper offers outside the Google Play store.

the fines that Brussels has imposed today on Google for a total of 890 million euros are 'an obvious example of sovereignty and responsibility.'

— Teresa RiberaEU Competition Commissioner Teresa Ribera commenting on the fines imposed on Google.

Ribera, speaking to a select group of media including EFE, emphasized that the European Commission operates "under the law" and must penalize companies that violate EU regulations. "Imagine if we could decide whether to apply the law or not because we are afraid," she stated, addressing concerns about potential retaliation from then-U.S. President Donald Trump.

Imagine if we could decide whether to apply the law or not because we are afraid

— Teresa RiberaRibera explaining the Commission's obligation to enforce regulations regardless of potential political repercussions.

The Commission's action falls under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which governs fair competition among major tech companies in the EU. Google has 60 days to cease these practices or face further periodic fines. Ribera stressed the EU's commitment to its values, stating, "Our duty is to defend European values." She also expressed a desire for respectful relations with global partners, including the U.S. government.

Our duty is to defend European values

— Teresa RiberaRibera stating the EU's commitment to its principles in regulatory actions.

Regarding cooperation on regulating big tech, Ribera called for "greater cooperation" between Brussels and Washington. She pointed to the ongoing discussions around artificial intelligence, noting that even rivals like OpenAI and Anthropic are urging G7 leaders to play a significant role in establishing common governance for the technology. While unsure of Trump's reaction, Ribera affirmed the EU's openness to provide explanations if any "misunderstanding" arises, reiterating the commitment to fair and secure digital environments.

it is 'necessary' to develop 'greater cooperation' between Brussels and Washington when regulating big tech

— Teresa RiberaRibera advocating for increased collaboration between the EU and US on tech regulation.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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