Not Accepting KPPU's Decision, This Is The Reason Google Files An Appeal On The Monopoly Play Store

JAKARTA - Google has filed an appeal against the decision of the Business Competition Supervisory Commission (KPPU), which states that Google LLC is guilty of alleged monopoly on the implementation of Google Play Billing in various applications.

In an official statement on its blog, Google stated that the KPPU's decision contained a lot of factual inaccuracies about Google Play and its operations in the ecosystem.

"We respectfully appeal the decision, which is based on a fundamental misconception about the app economy and how our business works," said Brandon LeBlanc, Director of APAC Defense, Regulatory Affairs.

First, Google emphasizes that Google Play is not the only payment method available. There are many other options, including third-party app stores and live downloads from developer websites.

Furthermore, the search giant also emphasized that the cost of the services charged had been adjusted and continued to be lowered, with most developers only charged 15 percent or less.

"In Indonesia, for developers who sell digital content in their applications, most of them meet the requirements for service fees of 15 percent or less," he said.

Finally, they say that Google has provided a user-selected billing system (UCB) since 2022, which allows developers to use alternative payment systems at lower service costs.

"We have conveyed our commitment to expand the UCB program to game developers in Indonesia. This shows our commitment to choice and flexibility," he continued.

On January 21, 2025, the Commission Council fined Google LLC IDR 202.5 billion, which must be deposited into the State Treasury as a fine for violations in the field of business competition.

With this appeal, Google is confident in their position and will file arguments in the ongoing legal process.