EU fines Apple, Meta in 1st big tech crackdown

The European Union has fined Apple €500 million ($570 million) and Meta €200 million in the first enforcement action under its new Digital Markets Act (DMA), marking a significant escalation in the bloc’s efforts to rein in Big Tech’s market dominance.

The penalties follow a year-long investigation by the European Commission, which found the US ech giants had breached rules aimed at ensuring fair competition and access for smaller digital market players.

The landmark ruling could add to transatlantic friction, as US President Donald Trump—who has openly criticised EU regulatory actions targeting American companies—has previously threatened retaliatory tariffs in similar disputes.

The DMA, which came into force earlier this year, sets strict obligations for so-called “gatekeeper” firms to prevent abuse of market power, and empowers the Commission to levy fines of up to 10 per cent of global turnover for violations.

Attribution: Reuters

Subediting: Y.Yasser