EU pressure mounts over Google antitrust probe * Science and Technology Times

European publishers and tech associations want the EU to finalize its Google search investigation and issue penalties.
They say the prolonged process weakens the Digital Markets Act and hurts local companies.
Google maintains it has complied with regulatory demands and rejects claims of unfair self‑preferencing.

Growing pressure on the EU to act

European publishers, technology firms and startup groups have called on EU regulators to complete their nearly two‑year investigation into Google’s search practices. Their joint letter urges the European Commission to issue a formal decision next week, arguing that the prolonged process undermines the effectiveness of the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The signatories include the European Publishers Council, the European Magazine Media Association, the European Tech Alliance and EU Travel Tech. These organizations represent a broad coalition of companies that say Google’s conduct continues to harm their competitiveness.

The investigation, launched on March 25, 2024, focuses on whether Google favors its own services in search results. Regulators have stated that DMA cases should be resolved within 12 months, but this probe has extended well beyond that timeline. The Commission issued charges last year, signaling that it believes Google may be in breach of the rules. Google denies the allegations and maintains that its search engine treats competing services fairly.

The groups behind the letter argue that the Commission’s credibility is at stake. They warn that any perception of weakened enforcement could embolden large platforms to resist compliance. According to the letter, European companies continue to lose revenue due to Google’s practices, limiting their ability to invest and expand. Some businesses, they say, are already facing financial distress or potential bankruptcy.

A Commission spokesperson confirmed receipt of the letter and said the investigation remains a priority. The spokesperson added that the Commission aims to conclude the case as quickly as possible. No specific timeline was provided, however. The delay has fueled frustration among companies that depend on visibility in online search markets.

Google’s response and ongoing disputes

Google says it has already implemented changes to address concerns raised by regulators and rivals. The company argues that these adjustments were made despite internal disagreement about their necessity. A spokesperson stated that Google wants the investigation resolved so it can focus on product development. The company also claims that the modifications required under the DMA have degraded the quality of its search results for European users.

According to Google, the changes represent the most significant downgrade in the history of its search product. The company says this shift benefits only a small group of complainants rather than the broader public. Google maintains that it does not favor its own services and that its search engine is designed to provide the most relevant results. These statements reflect the company’s long‑standing position in previous antitrust disputes.

Rivals disagree and say Google’s adjustments fall short of what the DMA requires. They argue that the company continues to structure search results in ways that disadvantage competitors. Several organizations, including the Initiative for Neutral Search and the German Startup Association, have joined the call for stronger enforcement. Their position is that only a formal non‑compliance ruling will compel Google to make meaningful changes.

The groups want the Commission to issue a cease‑and‑desist order and impose a deterrent fine. They believe such measures are necessary to ensure fair competition in digital markets. The DMA gives regulators the authority to impose significant penalties for violations. Companies found in breach can face fines of up to 10% of global annual revenue, or 20% for repeated offenses.

Regulatory tensions and broader implications

The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between the EU and major U.S. technology companies. European regulators have taken a more aggressive approach to limiting the market power of large platforms. This has led to repeated clashes with Washington over issues such as data privacy, online advertising and AI governance. The DMA represents one of the EU’s most ambitious attempts to reshape digital competition.

Supporters of the DMA argue that strong enforcement is essential to prevent dominant platforms from stifling innovation. They say smaller companies cannot compete effectively if search results consistently favor a single provider’s services. Critics, however, warn that overly strict rules could hinder product development and reduce user experience quality. These debates continue to shape the regulatory landscape in Europe.

The outcome of the Google investigation may influence how future DMA cases are handled. A swift and decisive ruling could signal that the EU intends to enforce the law aggressively. A prolonged or inconclusive process, by contrast, might raise doubts about the DMA’s effectiveness. Companies across the tech sector are watching closely for signs of how the Commission will proceed.

For now, the Commission has not indicated when a final decision will be announced. The pressure from publishers and tech groups suggests that patience is running thin. Their letter reflects a broader concern that regulatory delays could weaken Europe’s position in the global digital economy. The coming weeks may determine whether the EU can meet expectations for timely enforcement.