EU Fines Google $1 Billion Over Search Rules

The fine is the latest action by Brussels, which has led the world in controlling powerful tech firms. Teresa Ribera, a senior Commission official, said the decision helped consumers. She argued that the best products should win because they are better, not because they belong to the company that runs the search engine. It is not the first time Google has been punished: the company recently lost an appeal against a separate 4.5 billion dollar fine over its Android system. Last year, the EU also fined Apple 500 million euros and Meta 200 million euros under similar rules.

Google reacted angrily. Kent Walker, its president of global affairs, called the fine unfair and said the DMA would force Google to remove popular search features, such as instant prices for hotels and flights. The company can appeal the decision and ask for it to be paused. The timing was striking, as it came only hours before temporary US tariffs on about 60 countries were due to end. The move risked angering President Donald Trump, but EU officials said the fine had nothing to do with trade.