Japan's Antitrust Watchdog Orders Google to Cease Anti-Competitive Practices
- M.R Mishra
- Apr 17
- 2 min read
On April 15, 2025, Japan's Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) issued a cease-and-desist order against Google, marking the first time the regulator has taken such action against a major global tech company. The JFTC found that Google violated Japan's Antimonopoly Act by entering into agreements with Android smartphone manufacturers that favored Google Search and Chrome, effectively limiting competition.
These agreements, in place since July 2020, included revenue-sharing deals contingent upon pre-installing Google's services and excluding rival offerings.
As part of the order, Google is required to revise its contracts to allow more flexibility for phone makers, particularly in advertising revenue distribution. Additionally, the company must appoint an independent third party to oversee compliance with the order for the next five years.
Google Japan expressed disappointment with the JFTC's findings, asserting that its agreements have promoted innovation and consumer choice. The company stated it would review the order thoroughly to determine its next steps
What Are Antitrust Laws?
Antitrust laws are regulations designed to promote fair competition and prevent monopolistic practices in the marketplace. Their primary goal is to ensure businesses compete ethically, fostering innovation, lower prices, and better quality for consumers.
These laws prohibit anti-competitive behaviors such as price-fixing, collusion, market division, and mergers that could reduce competition.
Notable examples include the breakup of Standard Oil in 1911 and modern cases targeting tech giants. . By curbing unfair dominance, antitrust policies protect consumers and sustain a dynamic, equitable economy.
This move by Japan aligns with global efforts to address monopolistic practices in the digital economy, as similar antitrust scrutiny has been directed at Google in the United States and Europe. The JFTC's action reflects Japan's commitment to ensuring fair competition in the rapidly evolving tech industry.
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