CCI Orders Probe into Google’s In-App Billing Policy Dispute with Indian Startups

India’s Competition Commission (CCI) has initiated an investigation into Google’s in-app billing system following an ongoing dispute with Indian startups. The CCI’s decision comes amidst allegations that Google has implemented its policies in a discriminatory manner, favoring its own interests over those of local businesses. This move follows Google’s removal of over 100 Indian apps from its app store earlier this month, citing violations related to billing, which sparked outcry and intervention from the Indian government.

In response to the CCI’s order, Google has stated that it will cooperate with the investigation process. The dispute revolves around Google’s imposition of fees ranging from 11% to 26% on in-app payments, which some Indian startups have been trying to resist. This investigation adds to the ongoing scrutiny faced by Google in India over allegations of anticompetitive behavior and non-compliance with earlier directives aimed at promoting fair competition within the tech industry.