Microsoft ‘cooperating’ with Japanese antitrust probe
The Register
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Microsoft is fully cooperating with Japan’s Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) as part of an investigation into whether the tech giant has violated the nation’s antitrust laws. The probe focuses on Microsoft’s software licensing practices, particularly how it charges for running its software like Windows Server and SQL Server on third-party cloud services such as AWS or Google Cloud. In other regions, Microsoft has faced criticism for offering discounted rates when customers use its Azure platform but charging higher fees for competitors’ clouds. While the company has adjusted some of its practices in Europe, regulators in the UK, US, and elsewhere continue to scrutinize its business strategies.
The investigation was first reported by Nikkei, which revealed that JFTC conducted a raid on Microsoft’s Japanese office. This marks the latest move by Japanese authorities to target big tech companies. Earlier this year, Japan required Apple and Google to open their app stores to third-party apps, while also addressing antitrust concerns with Google over Android handset practices. These actions reflect Japan’s growing focus on regulating major technology firms, though its approach remains less comprehensive compared to the stringent regulations enforced by the European Union.
The case is significant because it highlights ongoing global antitrust scrutiny of Microsoft and other tech giants. While the company has made some changes in response to regulatory pressure, particularly in Europe, critics argue that these adjustments have been insufficient. The outcome of Japan’s probe could set a precedent for how cloud computing licensing practices are regulated worldwide, potentially influencing similar investigations in the US and UK. As Big Tech continues to dominate digital markets, such cases underscore the importance of fair competition and transparent business practices in maintaining a balanced tech ecosystem.
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Originally published on The Register on 2/26/2026