NEW DELHI :India’s antitrust body has ordered an unusual recall of its investigation reports that found Apple in breach of competition laws, after the U.S. giant complained its commercial secrets were disclosed to opponents, including Tinder-owner Match. Moreover, the India Apple antitrust recall might impact the investigation’s progress. #IndiaAppleAntitrustRecall
The move will prolong a procedure begun in 2021 and already marred by delays.
In an Aug. 7 confidential order, the antitrust body requested Apple’s opponents to return the investigation reports. This request, reported for the first time by Reuters, affects all parties involved in the case.
“It is imperative that such information be maintained confidential, ensuring that no unauthorised disclosure occurs,” the watchdog, the CCI, said in a four-page order signed by its top four officials.
The order did not say what confidential information Apple was concerned about.
In July, Reuters reported that antitrust investigations in 2022 and 2024 found Apple exploited its dominant position in the app store market. These reports specifically concerned Apple’s control over its iOS operating system.
Among those now asked to return the reports are Match and Indian startup group ADIF, which represents financial giant Paytm.
The order follows Apple’s private complaint to the CCI that versions of reports shared with parties disclosed “Apple’s confidential commercial sensitive information” adding that the watchdog must “recall and withdraw” them, the order showed.
Consequently, stakeholders are keenly watching to understand the potential ramifications for Apple and the broader tech industry. #IndiaAppleAntitrustRecall
In addition, the unusual recall of reports may influence global regulatory practices. As India takes this step, other countries might reassess their approaches to handling similar investigations. Thus, the India Apple antitrust recall could set a precedent for future regulatory actions.
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