CMA Evaluates Google Search Practices

The CMA has just announced they're gonna take a closer look at whether Google Search should be labeled with "Strategic Market Status" (SMS) under the shiny new Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers regime. We're all about working together on this and showing how our services really help out UK consumers and businesses, while also pointing out the tricky bits that come with any new rules.

Folks all over the UK rely on Google Search to find what they're looking for. It's not just about finding stuff, though—Search is a big deal for millions of British businesses too, helping them grow and connect with customers in cool, new ways. In 2023 alone, Google's products, including Search, kicked off around £118 billion in economic activity in the UK, supporting over a million businesses across the country. Plus, Google Search and Ads are helping UK businesses ship out over £20 billion worth of goods and services worldwide.

Digital services like Search are set to drive even more economic growth in the UK. The CMA themselves have said that "Search is vital for economic growth". We're glad they see how important digital tech is for boosting growth, and we hope they'll keep the Government's growth mission in mind when making regulatory decisions.

A smart, evidence-based approach to regulation could really help UK consumers and businesses by giving them more choices, lowering prices, and opening up new markets. But if the rules get too strict, it might just end up limiting what consumers and businesses can do.

We're gonna do our best to push for rules that help every business and let UK folks enjoy the best, most innovative services out there.