Japan’s Antitrust Watchdog Expected to Rule Against Google in Search Monopoly Case

Japan’s Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) is reportedly set to conclude that Google violated antitrust laws through monopolistic practices in web search services, according to a report by Nikkei Asia. The JFTC is expected to issue a cease and desist order requiring Google to halt such practices.

The investigation, launched in October 2023, aligns with similar actions taken by competition regulators in Europe and other major markets. The JFTC’s focus has been on Google’s dominance in web search services, which is integral to the company’s broader business model.

Google, which has yet to comment on the matter, relies heavily on its Chrome browser to gather user data that enhances its ad-targeting capabilities. This dominance has faced increasing scrutiny globally, with Japan now joining a growing list of jurisdictions taking steps to curb Google’s alleged anticompetitive behavior.

In related developments, the U.S. Department of Justice recently called for Alphabet, Google’s parent company, to divest its Chrome browser. U.S. authorities are pushing for strict measures to dismantle Google’s search monopoly, including a five-year ban on re-entering the browser market.

The JFTC’s anticipated ruling underscores a broader global crackdown on tech giants accused of exploiting market dominance at the expense of fair competition.