CMA Moves to Flag Google as "Strategic Market Status"

The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has proposed elevating Google to “strategic market status,” a landmark move under the new Digital Markets Unit. The status would require Google to be more transparent about how its search results are ranked, give users easier access to rival search engines, and allow simpler data portability to foster competition.

Under the plan, Google—already handling over 90% of UK searches—would face new rules from October, with further interventions rolling out in 2026. Content publishers could request greater visibility, while consumers would benefit from improved choice and portability.

Google has responded by expressing concerns over regulatory overreach and the expected impact on UK businesses and users.

This initiative marks the UK’s first dedicated step toward regulating major tech platforms. If implemented, it could reshape the country’s online economy, influencing how businesses compete, how news publishers reach audiences, and how consumers control their data.