The Turkish Competition Board initiated an investigation on March 25, 2025, against Apple Technology and Sales Limited Company, together with Destek Information Project and Service Services Industry Foreign Trade Inc., Easycep Information and Trade Inc., Getmobil Technology Inc. and HB Information Technologies Industry Trade Inc., pursuant to Article 41 of the Law No. 4054 on the Protection of Competition. This decision marks the beginning of a detailed investigation process to determine whether the market behavior of the companies in question restricts competition.
Reason for the Investigation: Allegations of Price Fixing and Market Sharing
The reason for this investigation initiated by the Competition Board is related to the possible coordinated actions of the companies in question regarding sales prices and markets. It is stated that the companies may have engaged in anti-competitive actions, particularly such as coordinating buyback prices and interfering with sales prices. When competition is hindered or distorted, consumers may face high prices or there may be insufficient variety in the market. Such situations can lead to serious problems in terms of economic control. The main reason for the Competition Board to open an investigation may be widespread competition violations such as price fixing and market sharing. If these companies have made an agreement to fix the prices of a particular product, share the market in a specific geography, or offer higher prices to consumers, this is considered a behavior that restricts competition. Furthermore, the fact that companies share sales activities in specific regions with each other constitutes a serious violation of Türkiye’s competition laws. The investigation process and possible outcomes The Competition Board’s investigation will initiate a detailed examination process to assess the impact of these companies on the market and their potential to violate competition. If a violation is found at the end of the investigation, serious penalties may be imposed on the companies. These sanctions may include fines or regulatory decisions requiring companies to reorganize their operations.
The Investigation Aims to Ensure Market Balance
The purpose of the Competition Board initiating such investigations is to protect competition in a free market economy and to enable consumers to purchase products at more affordable prices. At the same time, it aims to prevent potential unfair competition from large companies that limit the ability of small and medium-sized firms to compete in the market. This process is of great importance not only for large firms but also for the long-term healthy growth of the entire sector.
What to Expect Regarding Apple and Other Companies?
This investigation launched against Apple and four other companies is thought to have a broader impact. Because global companies like Apple, as leading players in the sector, can also influence other firms. Therefore, the results of the investigation could set a precedent not only for these companies but also for other players in the sector. Furthermore, broader regulations regarding the technology and retail markets in Türkiye may be implemented.
Conclusion and Possible Future Developments
The results of the investigation could be a significant milestone in terms of the application of competition law in Turkey. If the companies in question are found to have violated the rules set by the Competition Board, criminal sanctions may be imposed. This will be an example that shapes the future operations not only of these companies but also of other firms in the sector.
This process is considered a major step towards enabling consumers to shop at more competitive prices in a healthier market environment.
