EU reaffirms commitment to Digital Markets Act enforcement

The Digital Markets Act remains central to EU competition policy as appeals from Apple and Meta highlight rising transatlantic regulatory tensions.
The European Commission says enforcing the Digital Markets Act is a constitutional duty, as legal challenges and US criticism test the EU’s digital competition framework.

European Commission Executive Vice President Teresa Ribera has stated that the EU has a constitutional obligation under its treaties to uphold its digital rulebook, including the Digital Markets Act (DMA).

Speaking at a competition law conference, Ribera framed enforcement as a duty to protect fair competition and market balance across the bloc.

Her comments arrive amid growing criticism from US technology companies and political pressure from Washington, where enforcement of EU digital rules has been portrayed as discriminatory towards American firms.

Several designated gatekeepers have argued that the DMA restricts innovation and challenges existing business models.

Ribera acknowledged the right of companies to challenge enforcement through the courts, while emphasising that designation decisions are based on lengthy and open consultation processes. The Commission, she said, remains committed to applying the law effectively rather than retreating under external pressure.

Apple and Meta have already announced plans to appeal fines imposed in 2025 for alleged breaches of DMA obligations, reinforcing expectations that legal disputes around EU digital regulation will continue in parallel with enforcement efforts.

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