Apple (AAPL.O) asked Delhi High Court to block India’s antitrust watchdog from demanding global financial records, fearing a potential 38 billion penalty.
The move highlights escalating regulatory pressure on Big Tech firms in India, where Apple faces accusations of abusing its App Store dominance that could result in fines equivalent to 10% of global revenue.
Key Takeaways
- Apple challenges CCI’s demand for global financial data
- Company fears 38 billion fine based on worldwide turnover
- Indian startups accuse Apple of market dominance abuse
Market Context & Regulatory Risk
Apple’s legal challenge comes as India’s Competition Commission of India (CCI) seeks the company’s financial records through a private order issued December 31, 2025 1. The iPhone maker joins other tech giants facing increased scrutiny in India’s growing digital market, where Apple competes against Google’s Android ecosystem and local app developers.
The potential 38 billion penalty represents approximately 10% of Apple’s estimated global annual revenue, following India’s practice of calculating antitrust fines based on worldwide turnover rather than domestic operations 2. This approach mirrors European Union precedents but could set a significant penalty benchmark for other emerging markets.
Antitrust Investigation Details
The CCI investigation centers on allegations that Apple abuses its dominant position in the iOS app ecosystem. Indian startups have accused the company of implementing restrictive App Store policies that stifle competition and innovation 3.
Apple previously requested the CCI pause its antitrust report in November 2024, but the regulator rejected this appeal 4. The company now argues that demanding global financial records is “unconstitutional” and “grossly disproportionate” 5.
Legal Strategy & Corporate Response
Apple’s court filing represents its latest attempt to limit the scope of India’s antitrust investigation. The company contends that penalties should be calculated based on India-specific revenue rather than global turnover, potentially reducing its financial exposure significantly.
The Delhi High Court case follows a pattern of tech companies challenging regulatory authority in key growth markets. Apple’s legal team argues that the CCI’s approach exceeds reasonable regulatory bounds and could set dangerous precedents for international businesses operating in India.
Industry Implications
The outcome could influence how India regulates other multinational technology companies and shapes the country’s digital market competition framework. A successful challenge by Apple might encourage other firms to contest similar regulatory demands, while an adverse ruling could strengthen the CCI’s enforcement capabilities.
India represents a crucial growth market for Apple, with the company expanding manufacturing operations and retail presence despite regulatory challenges. The antitrust dispute occurs as Apple navigates complex compliance requirements across multiple jurisdictions, from the EU’s Digital Markets Act to various national competition laws.
Not investment advice. For informational purposes only.
References
1“Apple asks Indian court to stop antitrust body from seeking its financials” (2026-01-22). Reuters. Retrieved January 22, 2026.
2“Apple urges court to stop Indian antitrust body from seeking records” (2026-01-22). Seeking Alpha. Retrieved January 22, 2026.
3“Apple asks court to halt Indian antitrust inquiry into App Store policies” (2026-01-22). Economic Times. Retrieved January 22, 2026.
4“India Rejects Apple’s Request to Pause Antitrust Report” (2024-11-24). Yahoo Finance. Retrieved January 22, 2026.
5“Apple goes to High Court to avoid 38 billion fine in India” (2025-11-29). Times of India. Retrieved January 22, 2026.