NMA Responds To CMA Designation Of Apple and Google’s Mobile Ecosystems

Following today’s announcement from the Competition and Markets Authority confirming its decision to designate Google and Apple’s mobile ecosystems as having Strategic Market Status, NMA chief executive Owen Meredith has said:

“Whilst the CMA’s decision is welcome, the expert regulator must prioritise remedies that remove the exploitative fees charged by Apple and Google, which raise prices for consumers and prevent greater investment in quality journalism.

“Without this, the UK risks legitimising Apple and Google’s unjustified 30% fees, which let Google earn at least £2 billion in excess UK profits in 2021 alone.

“The clock is ticking, and the CMA must act swiftly to bring remedies into force, standing firm against inevitable pushback from Apple and Google. The UK has the most agile and effective digital competition regime in the world. We must use it – rather than waiting for Brussels or Washington.”