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Corning Avoids EU Fine by Dropping Exclusive Deals Amid Antitrust Probe

By  |  July 20, 2025

US glass manufacturer Corning has reached an agreement with European Union antitrust regulators to end an eight-month-long investigation into its business practices, according to Reuters. The deal, which includes significant changes to the company’s agreements with mobile phone manufacturers and glass finishers, enables Corning to avoid a potential fine.

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    The European Commission, which serves as the EU’s top competition authority, announced on Friday that it has accepted Corning’s proposed remedies. The company, known for its Gorilla Glass brand used in mobile phones, tablets, and smartwatches, has agreed to eliminate all exclusive dealing clauses from its existing contracts with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and finishers.

    Per Reuters, Corning also committed to removing certain purchasing requirements that may have limited competition. Specifically, the company will no longer require OEMs—or their suppliers—to source more than 50% of their demand from Corning. This condition will remain in place for nine years.

    Related: Corning Moves to Resolve EU Antitrust Probe with Exclusivity Deal Changes

    Corning first offered concessions to the Commission in November 2024, seeking to address regulatory concerns without admitting any wrongdoing. The EU had been scrutinizing whether the company’s contractual arrangements could have hindered market access for rivals, potentially violating antitrust rules that carry penalties of up to 10% of a company’s global turnover.

    The company’s customer list includes major tech names such as Samsung, Sony, Google, HP, Dell, and Nokia. According to Reuters, Apple is also reportedly among Corning’s clients, although the company has not officially confirmed the relationship.

    By voluntarily revising its contracts, Corning has managed to close the case without financial penalties, a move that highlights the European Commission’s willingness to settle antitrust concerns when companies offer meaningful and timely remedies.

    Source: Reuters