The European Union (EU) has successfully collected a record fine of €4.6 billion (approximately 7.8 trillion won) from Google. This amount is equivalent to about 2% of the EU's total budget for the year and is expected to help alleviate the financial burden on member states struggling with economic downturns.
According to Politico Europe on July 17, Google has paid the full amount following the final ruling by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) regarding the fine.
The EU Commission had imposed the astronomical fine in 2018, accusing Google of abusing its market dominance by forcing smartphone manufacturers to pre-install its search engine and Chrome browser. Google contested the decision and engaged in legal battles for eight years but ultimately failed to overturn the ruling.
The fine will be immediately incorporated into the EU's joint finances. An EU Commission official stated, "The revenue from this fine will be reflected in the budget revision to be announced in the second half of this year, which will reduce the contributions that member states are required to pay based on their Gross National Income (GNI)."
The EU's central budget, which funds agricultural subsidies and regional development, is primarily supported by contributions from member states. Given the recent rise in energy costs due to conflicts in the Middle East and economic slowdowns, the payment from Google is expected to be a welcome relief for member governments.
Germany, which contributes about a quarter of the EU budget, is estimated to save around €1 billion (approximately 1.7 trillion won) as a result of this fine payment.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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