brussels Braces for “Trumpian” Shift as EU Competition Policy Loses Its Edge
Brussels – A marked shift in the European Union’s approach to antitrust enforcement is raising concerns among observers,who point to a recent,subdued decision regarding Google as evidence of a waning willingness to confront powerful U.S. tech companies. The change echoes a dynamic reminiscent of the Donald Trump era in the United States, where regulatory challenges faced political headwinds and assertive action gave way to quiet resolutions.
For over a decade,the EU distinguished itself through aggressive competition policy,unafraid to challenge American corporate giants.landmark cases included blocking a $42 billion Honeywell acquisition of General Electric in 2001, and later, pursuing considerable penalties against google and Apple. Former antitrust czar Margrethe Vestager became a global figure, publicly threatening to break up Google and securing a €13 billion tax repayment order from Apple related to its arrangements in Ireland. However, the recent handling of a fine for Google’s search advertising practices signals a potential departure from this assertive stance, prompting questions about the future of EU-U.S. tech regulation.
The anticipated fine against Google was initially delayed at the request of EU trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, a move that promptly drew criticism. When the decision was finally publicized, it was delivered via a low-profile press release and explanatory video, conspicuously excluding the commissioner in charge, Teresa Ribera. This contrasted sharply with the high-profile approach previously favored by the Commission.
The subdued announcement did not prevent a swift reaction from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who posted on his truth Social platform that his ”Management will NOT allow these discriminatory actions to stand.” While Trump is no longer in office, his statement underscores the potential for escalating transatlantic tensions over tech regulation and the possibility of retaliatory measures. the shift within the EU Commission raises concerns that political considerations are increasingly influencing decisions that were once driven primarily by legal and economic arguments, potentially signaling a new era of diminished regulatory ambition.
