Apple Challenges India’s CCI Over Global Revenue Data in Antitrust Case
Apple Inc. is currently engaged in a legal dispute with India’s Competition Commission of India (CCI) concerning the calculation of potential penalties in an ongoing antitrust investigation into the company’s App Store practices. A pivotal court hearing is scheduled for January 27, 2026, which could significantly influence the outcome of this case.
Background of the Dispute
The CCI has been investigating Apple’s App Store operations, focusing on alleged anti-competitive practices. Central to the controversy is the method for determining fines. The CCI has indicated that penalties could be based on Apple’s global turnover, a practice permitted under India’s Competition Amendment Act of 2023. This approach could lead to fines as substantial as $38 billion, given Apple’s worldwide revenue figures.
Apple’s Position
Apple contends that any penalties should be calculated based solely on its revenue from the Indian App Store, arguing that the alleged infractions are confined to the Indian market. The company denies any intentional delays in the investigation and has requested a suspension of the proceedings until the courts clarify the appropriate basis for calculating fines.
CCI’s Response
The CCI has expressed dissatisfaction with what it perceives as Apple’s lack of cooperation, stating that repeated extensions have undermined procedural discipline. The commission has warned that it may proceed with the investigation if Apple does not comply with its requests.
Recent Developments
On January 15, 2026, Apple filed a motion with the Delhi High Court seeking to prevent the CCI from accessing its global financial records until the issue of fine calculation is resolved. Apple argues that providing these documents prematurely would compromise its primary legal challenge to India’s penalty assessment methods.
Implications
This legal battle underscores the complexities multinational corporations face when navigating regulatory environments in different countries. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how global revenue is considered in antitrust penalties within India, potentially affecting other international companies operating in the region.
