Belgium Investigates Google Over Potential Abuse of Dominance

The Belgian Competition Authority (BMA) has launched a formal investigation into Google’s advertising practices, focusing on whether the company’s terms and conditions violate European and Belgian competition laws. The investigation, announced on February 27, 2026, centers on potential anti-competitive behavior within the online advertising market. The BMA’s inquiry will specifically examine Google’s role as an intermediary in the advertising market and its provision of tools for advertisers. According to the BMA, there are “serious indications” that Google has abused its market position. This investigation follows a 2.95 billion euro fine levied against Google by European regulators last year for similar violations related to its advertising marketplace. Google offers a range of services within the online advertising ecosystem, including AdX, an advertising exchange where ad space is traded, and tools designed to facilitate ad purchasing for advertisers. The BMA’s concerns stem from the potential for Google to leverage its dominance across these services to unfairly influence the market. The investigation is focused specifically on the Belgian market, though the outcome could have broader implications for Google’s operations throughout Europe. The BMA’s actions align with wider efforts to ensure fair competition within the digital sector. The legal basis for the investigation rests on Article IV.2 of the Belgian Economic Law Code and Article 102 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, which prohibit the abuse of a dominant market position. As of February 27, 2026, Google has not publicly responded to the BMA’s announcement. The BMA has not indicated a timeline for the completion of its investigation.