Google Faces Second EU Antitrust Fine Under DMA

• The European Commission is preparing a second penalty against Google for favoring its own search services, amid ongoing regulatory scrutiny.

Alphabet’s Google is expected to receive a second fine under the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), according to sources familiar with the matter. The European Commission, acting as the bloc’s competition authority, is currently drafting its decision following earlier penalties issued this month. A €2.95 billion ($3.45 billion) fine was previously imposed for giving preferential treatment to Google’s display advertising services and its ad exchange platform, AdX. The upcoming case concerns allegations that Google favored its vertical search tools—such as Google Shopping, Flights, and Hotels—over competing services.

Regulatory Framework and Allegations

Both cases fall under the DMA, which outlines specific obligations for large digital platforms to ensure fair competition and user choice. The rules prohibit self-preferencing and mandate equal treatment of rival services in search results and advertising. Violations can result in fines of up to 10% of a company’s global annual revenue. Google has submitted several proposals to address the Commission’s concerns, but critics from various sectors—including travel, retail, and comparison platforms—remain dissatisfied.

Google pointed to earlier remarks by Oliver Bethell, its senior director for competition, emphasizing the need to conclude the process without favoring narrow interests. The Commission declined to comment on the ongoing proceedings. Sources indicated that the case is unlikely to be resolved quickly, partly due to criticism from the Trump administration regarding the EU’s regulatory stance on U.S. tech firms. Current trade tensions between the EU and the United States have also contributed to the cautious pace of enforcement.

Potential Outcomes and Industry Impact

While Google may still avoid a second fine by submitting a revised proposal, the Commission’s position suggests a firm approach to compliance. The DMA represents a significant shift in how digital markets are regulated, with implications for other major platforms operating in Europe. Industry observers are watching closely to see whether the EU’s actions will lead to broader changes in platform behavior. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for future enforcement under the DMA.