Tech giant Apple Inc. is facing mounting regulatory pressure in India after the country’s antitrust watchdog said the company has failed to submit crucial financial data in an ongoing competition case. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has now scheduled a final hearing on May 21, 2026, signalling that the case is moving toward a decisive stage.
According to the regulator’s order, Apple has not provided details of its financials or submitted its response to the findings of a 2024 investigation. These submissions are typically required for the CCI to determine penalties in cases where companies are found to have violated competition laws.
The watchdog noted that Apple had been given multiple opportunities to comply but had failed to do so. While the company has been granted a final window of two weeks to submit the required information, the scheduling of a hearing indicates that regulators are prepared to proceed regardless.
Probe Centers on App Store Practices and Market Dominance:
The case dates back to 2021, when complaints were filed by a non-profit group and later supported by companies such as Match Group and several Indian startups. The core allegation is that Apple abused its dominant position in the iOS app distribution market.
Investigators concluded in 2024 that Apple forced app developers to use its in-app purchase system, restricting alternative payment methods and potentially harming competition.
Apple has denied these allegations, maintaining that it is a relatively small player in India’s smartphone market, where Android devices dominate. The company argues that its practices are standard for ensuring security and user experience across its ecosystem.
“India watchdog sets final hearing in Apple antitrust case after data lapse.”~Reuters
Apple Challenges Penalty Framework, Cites Legal Dispute:
A key reason cited by Apple for withholding data is its ongoing legal challenge in the Delhi High Court. The company is contesting India’s antitrust penalty rules, particularly provisions that allow fines to be calculated based on global turnover rather than domestic revenue.
Apple has warned that such a method could expose it to penalties of up to $38 billion, making it one of the largest antitrust fines ever imposed globally.
The company had also requested the CCI to pause proceedings until the court decides on the validity of the penalty framework. However, the regulator rejected this request, stating that the investigation should continue independently.
Legal experts say Apple still has an opportunity to submit its financial data before the hearing, which could influence the final penalty amount if the company is found in violation.
“Apple’s legal challenge over penalty rules complicates India antitrust case.”~Economic Times
Final Hearing Signals Tougher Regulatory Stance:
The decision to fix a final hearing date is being seen as a sign that Indian regulators are taking a firmer approach toward global tech companies operating in the country. Experts believe the outcome of the case could have far-reaching implications for app store policies and digital competition in India.
India has become an increasingly important market for Apple, with its iPhone market share rising in recent years. However, this case highlights the challenges multinational companies face as regulators tighten oversight of digital platforms.
“India’s antitrust scrutiny of Big Tech intensifies with Apple case.”~CNBC
If the CCI rules against Apple, it could reshape how app developers operate within the iOS ecosystem in India and potentially influence regulatory approaches in other markets. The upcoming May 21 hearing is expected to be a crucial moment in determining not only Apple’s liability but also the future of competition rules in the country’s fast-growing digital economy.
