Turkish Competition Authority launches investigation into major tech companies

The Turkish Competition Authority has launched an investigation into Apple, Destek Bilisim, Easycep Bilisim, Getmobil Teknoloji, and HB Bilisim over allegations of price coordination, potentially violating Türkiye’s competition law.

The investigation focuses on Apple’s pricing practices in Türkiye, particularly whether they have influenced reseller prices and buyback rates. If proven, these actions could lead to significant fines and regulatory measures.

Key details

• A preliminary inquiry examined whether Apple Technology and Sales Limited Company (APPLE) interfered with reseller pricing, possibly violating Article 4 of Law No. 4054 on the Protection of Competition.
• On February 27, 2025, the Competition Board reviewed findings from on-site inspections and decided to open a formal investigation.
• Authorities are investigating whether Apple coordinated the resale prices of its products and buyback rates in collaboration with the other companies under scrutiny.

Context

The companies under investigation operate in Türkiye’s technology sector, engaging in the import, export, sale, and distribution of computers, tablets, smartphones, headphones, accessories, and other electronic devices.

Similar antitrust investigations into Apple’s pricing strategies have been conducted worldwide, reflecting ongoing concerns over potential anti-competitive practices.

What’s next

• The Competition Authority will conduct a detailed investigation to determine if these companies engaged in illegal market manipulation.
• If found in violation of competition laws, they could face financial penalties, regulatory restrictions, or mandatory changes to their pricing policies.