UK cloud market set to get stronger anti-competitive rules in clampdown on US giants

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The CMA could be set to introduce new measures for a fairer cloud market
Ofcom referred its 2022 findings to the CMA, which could make a decision soon
Key considerations are egress and licensing fees and technical restrictions

The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is reportedly set to propose new measures to address anticompetitive business practices in the nation’s cloud market.

Such measures would address the current dominance held by hyperscalers like Amazon, Microsoft and Google.

The investigation stems from a 2022 Ofcom report examining the dominance that these companies have in the UK’s cloud sector – the review was previously referred from the communications regulator to the CMA to address these concerns.

CMA could investigate Amazon, Microsoft, Google’s dominance

The CMA reportedly has a provisional decision deadline of November to December 2024, meaning that the hyperscalers could soon be facing even more regulatory pressure after what seems like months of endless investigations.

If it goes ahead with its investigation, the CMA would target issues like egress fees, unfair licensing fees, discounts for larger clients and interoperability issues that present technical difficulties for those looking to switch providers.

Remedies could include price caps, reduced technical barriers and banning agreements that encourage customers to commit to higher spending.

Microsoft could also be asked to charge the same for its productivity software regardless of the cloud provider, something that could disrupt its existing model.

In a June 2024 report, the CMA said that it was in the early stages of looking into potential remedies. The Authority declined to comment on the timing.

For the three hyperscalers, this won’t be the first investigation that they’ve faced in recent months over anticompetitive practices. Microsoft has been in the spotlight a lot over its cloud terms in Europe and the US. Just last week the FTC indicated that it would be investigating Microsoft over locking customers into its Azure cloud platform – Amazon, Apple and Google are not exempt from similar pressures by the FTC either.

Via CNBC

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With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!