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Apple has accused India’s competition authorities of overstepping their bounds by compelling the U.S. tech giant to hand over its financial data in an antitrust investigation related to the iPhone app marketplace, according to court documents. Apple claims that the law used to impose penalties is flawed, and they’re challenging its constitutionality in a New Delhi court, arguing that the Competition Commission of India (CCI) must wait until this legal battle is resolved.
A confidential Indian court filing dated April 24, reviewed by Reuters on Thursday, indicates mounting tensions between Apple and Indian regulators. The CCI has been requesting Apple’s financial records since 2024, which are typically necessary for determining fines, after uncovering alleged abuse of market dominance. Apple has refused to comply, asserting that the law used to calculate penalties is being challenged in court, and the regulator should wait for the legal process to conclude.
Following an ultimatum from the CCI earlier this month for Apple to submit its financial information and a scheduled hearing on May 21, Apple has asked the Delhi High Court to intervene and halt the proceedings. In its filing, Apple argued that the CCI’s action represents an overreach of judicial authority, seeking a court hearing on the matter by May 15.
Neither Apple nor the CCI responded to Reuters’ inquiries. The dispute arose after the CCI’s April order, where it stated Apple had been given ample opportunity to respond to the investigation report but had not provided the requested financial data.
This case is part of a broader pattern of Apple facing antitrust allegations worldwide. India remains a crucial market for Apple, with iPhones capturing a 9% market share—up from 4% two years ago, according to Counterpoint Research. Apple insists it is a minor player compared to Google’s Android, which dominates the Indian smartphone market.
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