Amazon, Apple slapped $225-mn fine in Italy for alleged collusion

Italy’s antitrust watchdog has fined Apple and Amazon more than 200 million euros ($225 million) for cooperating to restrict competition in the sale of Apple and Beats branded products in violation of European Union rules.

An investigation found that provisions in a 2018 agreement between the US tech giants limited access to Italy’s Amazon marketplace to selected resellers, the Italian Competition Authority said Tue­sday. The watchdog slapped Apple with a $151.32 million fine and Amazon with a $77.29 million penalty.

It also ordered them to end the restrictions and give resellers access in a “non-discriminatory manner.” Both Apple and Amazon said they would appeal. “The proposed fine is disproportionate and unjustified,” Amazon said.