Canadian Competition Bureau closes Google probe

Nieuws Breedband Canada 20 APR 2016
Canadian Competition Bureau closes Google probe

The Canadian Competition Bureau has closed its investigation into allegations of anti-competitive conduct by Google in its online search, search advertising and display advertising services in Canada. 

After conducting an extensive review the Competition Bureau found evidence supporting the allegation that the company used anti-competitive clauses in AdWords API terms and conditions. Google removed these clauses in 2013 in response to similar concerns raised by the US FTC. The company has made a commitment to the Commissioner not to reintroduce them (or others which have the same effect) for a period of five years. 

With respect to the other allegations of anti competitive conduct, the Competition Bureau did not find sufficient evidence that Google engaged in these practices for an anti competitive purpose, and/or that the practices resulted in a substantial lessening or prevention of competition in any relevant market. These included allegations of anti-competitive behaviour in the areas of search manipulation, preferential treatment of Google services, syndication agreements, distribution agreements. 

Categories:

Internet

Companies:

Google

Countries:

Canada

Tags:

Regulations, Advertising services

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