Apple Asks Indian Court to Block Antitrust Body From Seeking Financial Records

Apple is now facing a major legal battle in India. The company has asked the Delhi High Court to stop the Competition Commission of India (CCI) from demanding Apple’s global financial records. This case is linked to Apple’s ongoing antitrust probe over its App Store rules. The outcome could impact Apple’s future in India and set a new global standard for tech regulation.

What Triggered the Case

• Apple under CCI probe: India’s competition watchdog started an antitrust case against Apple.
• App Store rules questioned: Regulators say Apple may block developers from using other payment systems.
• CCI seeks global data: CCI asked Apple for worldwide financial records.
• Apple calls it too broad: Apple says the request is excessive and not necessary.
• Apple goes to court: Apple filed a petition in the Delhi High Court.
• Long antitrust history: Apple has faced App Store scrutiny in India for years.

Apple’s Argument in Court

• Apple’s core claim: Sharing global financials will weaken Apple’s legal case.
• Penalty rule is the issue: Apple argues the new penalty law is unfair.
• Global turnover vs India turnover: The law allows fines based on global revenue, not only India revenue.
• Huge possible penalty: Apple warns fines could reach $38 billion.
• Apple calls it unconstitutional: Apple says the rule is arbitrary and wrong.
• Apple wants a pause: Apple wants the court to pause the financial request until the law is reviewed.

What the CCI Says

• CCI defends its power: The regulator says it can seek financial records and fine up to 10% of turnover.
• CCI says request is legal: They say the new rule only clarifies how “turnover” is defined.
• Apple got extensions: CCI claims Apple has been given multiple chances to submit documents.
• CCI warns it will proceed: The regulator says it can continue the probe even if Apple delays.
• Global revenue matters: CCI says India’s sales are a small part of Apple’s global business.
• Global trend: Other countries also use global revenue for big tech penalties.

Why This Matters for Apple

• Big global precedent: If Apple loses, other countries may also demand global financial records.
• Sensitive business data: Apple’s financials include sales, fees, and internal revenue breakdown.
• India expansion at risk: Apple is increasing iPhone production and exports from India.
• Hearing date: The case is set for January 27, 2026.

Broader Implications for Tech Companies

• Global crackdown on big tech: Regulators worldwide are targeting Apple and others.
• Apple already faces cases: Apple faced antitrust fights in the EU and the US.
• New rules may spread: Other nations may follow India’s approach.
• Compliance costs rise: Companies may need new reporting and tax strategies.
• Developers could benefit: More transparency may lead to fairer App Store rules.
• Small businesses gain: Lower fees and better competition could follow.

Impact on India’s Digital Market

• Win for developers: More transparency could help small app creators compete fairly.
• Better consumer choices: More app options could lower prices and improve services.
• Investment risk: Apple may slow new investments if rules become strict.
• India strengthens control: This case shows India is serious about regulating big tech.
• Global influence: India could shape future digital rules worldwide.

Conclusion

Apple’s request to block the CCI from getting its global financial records is a key moment for global tech regulation. This case is about Apple, fair competition, and transparency. The Delhi High Court’s decision could affect how Apple operates in India and worldwide. The outcome could also shape future antitrust laws and how governments regulate big tech firms.

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Disclaimer:

The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes. Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.