The European Union has just issued its first historic sanctions under its new Digital Markets Regulation (DMA). And two American giants, Apple and Meta, are bearing the brunt. The Commission is fining the Apple company €500 million for abuses related to its App Store, and €200 million for Meta for misuse of personal data. A decision that could reignite the trade war with Donald Trump, already up in arms against European “persecution” of American companies.
Symbolic sanctions, but a clear political message
In her statement, Competition Commissioner Teresa Ribera called it a "strong and clear message." Apple is accused of preventing developers from informing their customers about more advantageous payment options outside the App Store. Meta, for its part, is being fined for combining user data between Facebook and Instagram for advertising purposes without explicit consent.
While the fines may seem modest compared to the colossal profits of Apple ($93,7 billion in 2024) and Meta ($62,4 billion), they mark the beginning of a stricter regulatory era. And above all, they come at a time of heightened diplomatic tensions. Donald Trump, already angry with Brussels over customs duties, risks seeing red in the face of what he perceives as a relentless crackdown on American "big tech."
Towards a transatlantic escalation?
Apple, which is decrying the persecution, promises to appeal. Meta, for its part, denounces a "double standard" in favor of Chinese and European competitors. The White House, for its part, is following the case closely. And in this context, these sanctions could be the starting point for a major trade standoff between the United States and Europe.
The European Commission, however, assures that it wants to "engage in dialogue" to ensure that companies comply. A 60-day deadline has been granted, after which daily penalty payments could be imposed. And this is just the beginning: other proceedings are underway against Apple and Google, both in Brussels and Washington. The digital war has only just begun.
