Britain’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced Tuesday a landmark proposal that could subject Google to sweeping new oversight, marking the first move under the regulator’s recently enhanced powers to police global tech giants.
Under the draft plan, Google would be designated as having “strategic market status” in search—reflecting its dominance, with more than 90% of UK search queries passing through its platform.
The proposed rules would empower the CMA to require Google to offer fairer rankings for businesses in its search results, boost transparency for publishers, and ensure easier access to competing search services for users.
The regulator also floated measures that would improve data portability, making it easier for startups and rivals to launch new, innovative products that integrate with Google’s vast search infrastructure.
CMA Chief Executive Sarah Cardell highlighted that while Google has been an engine for digital progress, stronger measures are needed to foster competition and spur fresh innovation in the British tech ecosystem.
If adopted, Google would be the first company to receive this designation since the CMA was granted broad new powers to scrutinize “gatekeeper” platforms earlier this year. A final decision is expected in October.
Google responded to the draft proposal with concern over its broad scope and lack of direction, worrying that the range interventions were being considered without sufficient evidence.
Looking ahead, the CMA signaled it will consider further regulatory action in 2026 to tackle more complex issues, such as potential bias against specialized search competitors and the transparency of search advertising practices.
