India’s long-running antitrust case against Apple has reached a critical stage. Regulators are pushing back against Apple’s efforts to reduce a possible fine that could reach $38 billion. The dispute centers on Apple’s App Store practices and how penalties should be calculated under Indian competition law.
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) began investigating Apple in 2021 after a complaint from the advocacy group Together We Fight Society. By mid-2024, the regulator concluded that Apple held “significant influence” over digital services through its App Store.
Apple Challenges How Fines Are Calculated
Since then, Apple has challenged both the findings and the potential financial impact. The company argues that Indian law unfairly bases penalties on global turnover, rather than revenue generated only in India. According to Apple, this approach could lead to disproportionate punishment for conduct tied to a single market.
In late 2025, Apple asked Indian courts to step in. However, regulators rejected that request. In a December 2025 filing, the CCI stated that using global turnover aligns India with international antitrust standards and ensures penalties remain strong deterrents in global digital markets.
Regulators Defend a Tough Stance
Indian authorities insist that fines based solely on local revenue would lack impact on large multinational firms. They also accused Apple of attempting to mislead courts about the scope of financial data requested. While Apple claims regulators sought information beyond India-specific figures, the CCI maintains its demands were justified.
The law at the center of the dispute took effect in November 2024. Apple has argued that regulators are applying it retroactively. The CCI disagrees, stating that clarifying provisions can explain legislative intent even for earlier conduct.
What Happens Next
The case has now entered its fifth year. Apple has repeatedly delayed proceedings through legal challenges, including a successful move in 2024 to withdraw an earlier CCI report. Still, regulators remain firm.
Next, the Delhi High Court will hear arguments on January 27, 2026, focusing on how fines should be calculated. While no final penalty has been issued yet, the ruling could set a major precedent for how global tech companies are regulated in India’s fast-growing digital economy.
As a result, the outcome will matter far beyond Apple, shaping future antitrust enforcement across the country.
