While the ACCC has in many ways led the fight against tech giants Google and Facebook in recent years, the competition watchdog now says its “closely watching” international efforts in the space.
The ACCC has taken action against the tech giants first through the Digital Platforms Inquiry and now the News Media Bargaining Code.
But with the US Department of Justice having recently initiated action against Google over its dominant search business and with Epic Games taking Apple to court over its management of the app store, Sims said there is now reason for the ACCC to shift its focus offshore.
“The ACCC is focusing on the media bargaining code, our ad tech inquiry and our study examining app stores, and we have noted the Epic Games proceedings against Apple and Google in the US in regards to the latter,” Mr Sims said.
Sims also pointed to global merger laws and suggested Google and Facebook have been able build their position through acquisition.
“These are complex issues, but they matter enormously and, in different ways, they are being considered all over the world,” Mr Sims said.
“The international focus is encouraged by the many acquisitions by the main digital platforms. While the platforms have grown through amazing and beneficial innovation, they are cementing their position through frequent acquisitions,” Mr Sims said.
“We have seen the same in Australia in a range of domestic sectors.”
