Spain's Comision Nacional De Los Mercados Y La Competencia (CNMC) has launched an antitrust investigation into Apple's App Store, examining allegations of unfair treatment towards developers. This probe comes amid growing global scrutiny of major tech companies' business practices, particularly concerning their app marketplaces.
The investigation, initiated ex officio by the CNMC, focuses on possible anti-competitive behavior, specifically the imposition of unfair commercial conditions on developers who distribute their apps through the App Store. This move highlights the significant economic impact that app marketplaces have in Spain, warranting close regulatory oversight.
While the CNMC has not yet detailed specific allegations, the investigation likely includes issues similar to those raised in other countries. These issues may involve Apple's anti-steering policies, which restrict developers from directing users to external purchasing mechanisms outside the App Store. Such practices have been criticized for limiting competition and maintaining high commission fees.
If the CNMC finds Apple in violation of Spain's antitrust laws, particularly under Article 2 of the Law on the Protection of Competition (LDC), the company could face substantial fines. These fines can amount to up to 10% of Apple's global turnover from the previous year, potentially leading to a significant financial penalty.
This investigation adds to a growing list of global regulatory actions against Apple and other major tech firms, reflecting widespread concern over their market dominance and business practices. Recently, Japan also initiated similar scrutiny, and other countries have raised concerns about how these companies operate their app stores and other digital platforms.
The CNMC has a two-year timeline to conclude the investigation and issue a ruling. As this situation develops, it may significantly impact how digital marketplaces operate in Spain and potentially influence regulatory approaches in other jurisdictions. Apple has not yet issued a public statement regarding the investigation.