Epic Games CEO Criticizes Apple’s New App Store Fees in Japan, Halting Fortnite’s Return
In a recent development, Apple has announced significant changes to its App Store policies in Japan, allowing for the introduction of third-party app stores and alternative payment systems. This move comes in response to Japan’s Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA), aimed at fostering competition within the smartphone market. Under the new regulations, Japanese developers can establish their own app marketplaces on iPhones, with Apple imposing a reduced commission rate as low as 5% on sales made through these platforms. Additionally, developers now have the option to implement their own in-app payment systems, although Apple’s payment method remains available and continues to include commissions. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/apple-opens-iphone-alternative-app-stores-japan-2025-12-18/?utm_source=openai))
Despite these changes, Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has expressed strong dissatisfaction, labeling the new fees as junk fees that hinder genuine competition. Sweeney highlighted that Apple is imposing a 5% fee on all revenue from apps distributed through competing stores and intends to monitor all transactions within them using a mandatory reporting API. He described this as an egregious imposition on distribution and payments in which Apple has no involvement, referencing previous U.S. court findings that deemed similar practices illegal. ([appleinsider.com](https://appleinsider.com/articles/25/12/18/epic-games-ceo-slams-japanese-app-store-junk-fees-following-app-store-tweaks?utm_source=openai))
As a result of these fees, Sweeney announced that Fortnite will not return to iOS in Japan in 2025 as previously promised. He accused Apple of launching a travesty of obstruction and lawbreaking in gross disrespect to the government and people of Japan. Sweeney also criticized Apple’s introduction of new anticompetitive warning screens designed to mislead customers into believing their privacy and financial security are at risk when dealing with Apple competitors. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/2025/12/18/epic-games-accuses-apple-of-competition-crushing-junk-fees-as-battle-continues/?utm_source=openai))
This situation underscores the ongoing tension between Apple and developers over App Store policies and fees. While Apple maintains that its fees are justified to cover the costs of maintaining a secure and user-friendly platform, developers like Epic Games argue that these fees are excessive and stifle competition. The debate continues as both parties navigate the evolving landscape of app distribution and regulation.
