After several years of legal scrutiny, Mexico’s antitrust watchdog, the Federal Economic Competition Commission (COFECE), has officially closed its investigation into Google. The probe was initially launched to examine whether the tech giant had engaged in anti-competitive practices in its digital advertising and search business.

Case Rooted in Market Dominance Concerns

The investigation, which began in response to formal complaints from local digital marketing firms and tech competitors, focused on whether Google had abused its dominant market position to suppress competition. Concerns included preferential search listings and unfair advertising terms that allegedly disadvantaged smaller firms.

Insufficient Evidence Found, Says COFECE

COFECE concluded that the evidence did not substantiate the claims of monopolistic behavior. According to the regulatory body, while Google clearly holds a dominant position in several digital markets, dominance alone is not unlawful unless it is proven to be abused to restrict market competition—which could not be definitively proven in this case.

Google Responds to Decision

Google welcomed the decision, reiterating its commitment to open markets and competitive digital environments. The company emphasized its support for small businesses and developers across Latin America, citing its tools and platforms that help them grow online.

Global Implications for Tech Regulation

While the decision marks a legal victory for Google in Mexico, the tech giant continues to face similar investigations in other jurisdictions, including the European Union, the United States, and India. The Mexican case’s closure may influence regulatory momentum in Latin America, signaling that legal thresholds for antitrust action remain high.

Conclusion: A Strategic Win Amid Global Scrutiny

For Google, the closure of the Mexico case is a significant relief amid a wave of global antitrust actions. It showcases the challenges regulators face in proving anti-competitive behavior in fast-evolving digital markets and may embolden Google’s defense strategies in other high-stakes legal battles.