China launches antitrust probe into Google amid trade tensions

China has announced an antitrust investigation into Google, alleging violations of its anti-monopoly laws. The country’s State Administration for Market Regulation confirmed the probe in an official statement, citing concerns over Google’s market practices.

This move comes shortly after China imposed additional tariffs on select U.S. imports. Starting February 10, the country will introduce a 15% tariff on U.S. coal and liquefied natural gas, along with a 10% increase in duties on crude oil, farm equipment, and certain vehicles.

While Google pulled its search engine and internet services from China in 2010, it still operates in the country by assisting Chinese businesses in advertising on its global platforms.

The outcome of the investigation remains uncertain, with some experts suggesting it may conclude without penalties. Julian Evans-Pritchard, head of China economics at Capital Economics, noted in a report that the case could go either way.

Google is already facing regulatory scrutiny in multiple countries. In the U.S., the company lost a major antitrust lawsuit in August, with the Justice Department arguing that Google’s dominance in search created unfair market barriers. Authorities have since called for the company to divest its Chrome browser and refrain from exclusive agreements with Apple and Samsung.

Meanwhile, in the U.K., Google is under investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority to determine whether it holds "strategic market status" under newly introduced regulations.