Google Fined $12.6 Million in Indonesia for Antitrust Violations in Play Store Payments

Google Fined $12.6 Million in Indonesia for Antitrust Violations in Play Store Payments

The Indonesian Competition Authority (KPPU) recently delivered a significant blow to Google, fining the tech giant $12.6 million for anti-competitive practices within its Google Play Store. This ruling, stemming from an investigation into Google's mandatory use of its in-app purchase system, Google Play Billing (GPB), has sent shockwaves through the global tech industry. The KPPU's decision highlights the increasing scrutiny facing tech giants as they grapple with antitrust concerns and the growing power of regulators to curb monopolistic behavior. The Case Against Google The KPPU's investigation centered on Google's requirement that all developers within the Indonesian Play Store utilize GPB for in-app purchases. This mandate, which imposes fees of up to 30% on transactions, effectively limited developers' ability to explore alternative payment options. The KPPU argued that this restriction stifled competition, harmed developers by limiting their revenue potential, …