Google Challenges UK Tribunal to Apply New EU Rules to Shopping Search Case

Google is contesting a UK tribunal's decision to apply new EU rules on shopping searches in an ongoing antitrust case. The tech giant claims that Europe's latest search decision does not settle cases brought by competitors, specifically comparison-shopping sites Kelkoo and Ciao.

The two companies are seeking compensation from Google for allegedly favoring its own shopping service while burying rivals in search rankings. Google responded to the claims by redesigning its shopping feature in 2017, allowing rival comparison services to bid for space in its shopping box.

However, Kelkoo and Ciao argue that the redesign did not adequately address the issue, as the shopping box itself remains Google's comparison shopping service. They are seeking compensation based on what they claim is a continued unfair advantage for Google's own shopping service.

The Digital Markets Act, which was implemented by the EU in March 2024, aims to prevent companies that control access to customers from shutting out competitors. Google argues that the obligations under this law go further than traditional antitrust law and require closer scrutiny of how services compete and affect competition.