Google Faces Antitrust Action from Japan’s Competition Authority
The Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) is reportedly set to rule against Google for violating the country’s antitrust laws, Nikkei Asia reported on Sunday. The watchdog is expected to issue a cease-and-desist order, directing the tech giant to stop engaging in monopolistic practices.
The investigation, which began in October 2023, scrutinized Google’s dominance in web search services. Japan’s move follows similar actions by regulators in Europe and the United States, aiming to curb the company’s influence in the digital space.
Google has not yet issued a statement regarding the reported findings, and the JFTC could not be reached for comment.
Google’s Chrome browser, a cornerstone of the company’s operations, plays a critical role in collecting user data to enhance its advertising revenue. However, concerns over its market dominance have led to increased global scrutiny. In the United States, the Department of Justice recently proposed that Google divest its Chrome browser and remain out of the browser market for five years to dismantle its control over search-related services.
The JFTC’s anticipated ruling adds to mounting pressure on Google, signaling a broader global push to limit the market power of tech giants.
