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EU Regulators Prepare Second Fine Against Google Under Tech Law

By  |  September 25, 2025

Google could soon be handed another major financial penalty from European regulators as the European Commission prepares its next decision under the bloc’s sweeping Digital Markets Act (DMA). According to Reuters, three individuals familiar with the matter confirmed that a second fine is in the works, following a multibillion-euro sanction earlier this month.

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    The Commission, which enforces EU competition law, already fined Google 2.95 billion euros ($3.45 billion) for practices linked to its online display advertising services. Regulators concluded the company gave its own AdX exchange an unfair edge, disadvantaging competitors and publishers. Per Reuters, the upcoming case zeroes in on separate allegations that Google has been boosting its specialized search services—such as Google Shopping, Google Flights and Google Hotels—at the expense of rivals.

    Both proceedings fall under the DMA, legislation designed to curb the dominance of large technology firms. The rules restrict certain behaviors and are intended to expand competition and give consumers more choice. Penalties for breaches can amount to as much as 10% of a company’s annual worldwide revenue.

    Read more: Beijing Drops Google Antitrust Case as Focus Shifts to Nvidia

    Despite submitting multiple proposals to address regulators’ concerns, Google has not managed to satisfy critics, including comparison shopping platforms, travel companies and retailers. Reuters reported that the firm still has an opportunity to escape the second fine if it offers more effective remedies. The Commission itself declined to comment.

    When asked by Reuters, Google highlighted earlier remarks from Oliver Bethell, its senior director for competition, who said the company wanted to “bring this debate to an end without the interests of a few being prioritized over the millions of people and businesses in Europe who benefit from Search.”

    Those with knowledge of the case suggested that Brussels is not in a hurry to close proceedings, in part because of criticism from Washington over the EU’s aggressive stance on U.S. technology companies. Current trade frictions between the United States and the 27-member bloc are also playing into the timeline, according to Reuters.

    Source: Reuters