Google supports the CMA’s goal but… : Tech giant warns after UK slaps Search with special market status

Google issued a warning about potential negative consequences for UK businesses and consumers after the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) designated Google Search with Strategic Market Status under the country's new digital markets regime. The designation means Google will likely face new rules and regulations governing how its Search product operates in the UK market.In a statement, while stating support for the CMA's objectives, Google cautioned that some proposed interventions could damage the UK economy and innovation ecosystem. Google emphasised its alignment with regulatory goals while expressing hope for balanced outcomes.Today the CMA designated Google Search with Strategic Market Status under the UK’s new digital markets regime. Next, we will likely face new rules and regulations on how Search works.To date, UK businesses and consumers have been amongst the first to benefit from Google’s innovations, often months before their European counterparts. As a result, they see significant value: Google Search contributes billions of pounds a year to the UK economy — £118 billion in 2023 alone.The UK enjoys access to the latest products and services before other countries because it has so far avoided costly restrictions on popular services, such as Search. Retaining this position means avoiding unduly onerous regulations and learning from the negative results seen in other jurisdictions, which have cost businesses an estimated €114 billion.Many of the ideas for interventions that have been raised in this process would inhibit UK innovation and growth, potentially slowing product launches at a time of profound AI-based innovation. Others pose direct harm to businesses, with some warning that they may be forced to raise prices for customers.Google supports the CMA’s goal to ensure the UK’s competition framework mirrors the best interests of UK consumers and businesses. We hope to see outcomes that reflect such ambitions in the crucial months ahead.