Apple probe twist: India's CCI asks rivals to return reports
What's the story
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has taken an unprecedented step, by asking Apple's competitors to return reports of an investigation that found it breached competition laws. As per Reuters, this decision was made after the US tech giant expressed concerns about the disclosure of its confidential business information to competitors, including Match Group, the parent company of Tinder. The recall is set to prolong an investigation process initiated in 2021, that has already experienced several delays.
Order details
CCI issues confidential order
On August 7, the CCI issued a confidential order directing all parties involved in the case to return the investigation reports. The four-page order was signed by the top four officials of the CCI, who emphasized that "It is imperative that such information be maintained confidential, ensuring that no unauthorized disclosure occurs." However, it did not disclose what confidential information Apple was concerned about.
Market exploitation
Antitrust investigations found Apple exploiting market dominance
Earlier last month, Reuters reported that two reports by the CCI in 2022 and 2024 found Apple had exploited its dominant position in the Indian market, for app stores on its iOS operating system. Among those ordered to return the reports are Match and Indian start-up group ADIF. The latter represents financial giant Paytm. The recall order follows Apple's private complaint to the CCI.
Complaint response
Apple's complaint triggers CCI's recall order
In its complaint to the CCI, Apple alleged that versions of reports shared with parties disclosed "Apple's confidential commercial sensitive information," and insisted that the watchdog must "recall and withdraw" them. So far, neither Apple nor Match have commented on this matter. The CCIa and ADIF have not responded to Reuters' requests for comments either.