The European Commission,under Ursula von der Leyen,has taken a notable step by challenging Google,a major player among the GAFAM companies. This action follows a multi-year inquiry prompted by a complaint from the Council of European publishers.

The decision against Google marks a firm stance by the European commission. The company faces a fine of 2.95 billion euros for allegedly distorting competition for over a decade by favoring its own advertising services. Furthermore, the European Commission has mandated that Google cease these practices within 60 days, or possibly face a partial dismantling of its operations.

A fine and the threat of a partial dismantling of its activities

The European Commission has imposed a considerable fine on Google, totaling 2.95 billion euros, for allegedly distorting competition over a ten-year period. The commission alleges that Google unfairly promoted its own advertising services, disadvantaging advertisers, publishers, and competing platforms. Google has been given 60 days to rectify these practices or face the possibility of a partial dismantling of its business operations.

In response, Donald Trump characterized the fine as “Very unfair”, stating that his « Governance will not allow these discriminatory actions to be maintained “. He also indicated his intention to “Will be forced to launch a procedure under article 301 to cancel the unjust penalties imposed on these American companies who pay taxes”. Article 301 of the 1974 trade law allows the United States to impose sanctions on foreign countries for actions deemed “unjustifiable” or “unreasonable” that affect American trade.

“Very unfair,” Donald Trump said of the fine,adding his « Administration will not allow these discriminatory actions to be maintained “.

A fine of $ 425 million by Californian justice

antónio Costa, the president of the European Council, recently stated: “I am aware of the frustration felt by many Europeans, who perceive the union as too passive. But we have to be honest: in customs duties negotiations with Trump, stabilize transatlantic relations and guarantee the commitment of the United States in Ukraine security has been an absolute priority. »»

Adding to Google’s challenges,the company narrowly avoided a more severe penalty in the United States,specifically the potential dismantling of its online research market dominance. Simultaneously, a court in San Francisco imposed a fine of $425.7 million for privacy violations related to Google Maps and other services.

The situation highlights a complex interplay where competition law, originally conceived in the United States, is now being challenged by Donald Trump.