Fines against Apple and Meta also benefit the US economy

“Apple and Meta violated their obligations to open their platforms to fair competition. €500 million may seem like a calculated risk for Apple, but legally speaking, the identified violation only covered a one-year period. All future violations will carry significantly tougher penalties, as a result of this decision,” says Andreas Schwab MEP, EPP Group Spokesman on the Internal Market, commenting on the European Commission's decision to impose fines against Apple and Meta for breach of EU competition rules. 

“Today’s decision sends an unmistakable signal: even the most powerful digital corporations are not above the law. Those who systematically close off markets, suppress innovation, and deny consumers alternatives must expect serious consequences. Contrary to some media reports, these penalties are not ‘(trade-)political’ decisions. They are decisions based on clear legal provisions. Consistent and legally sound enforcement of the DMA is essential – not least to preserve the credibility and effectiveness of European competition policy as a whole. European consumers have always been open to using US services, and today’s decision will further expand their choice. This will also benefit the US economy,” Schwab continues.

“These sanctions are a strong signal: the rules of the European single market also apply in the digital realm. Those who violate our rules on competition, user rights, and platform responsibility must expect determined pushback. It’s not the amount that matters most - it's the message. The European single market does not tolerate breaches of the law – not even in the digital world,” Schwab concludes.