Apple has filed a case in the Delhi High Court against the Competition Commission of India (CCI), contesting how the regulator calculates penalties based on the company’s global turnover.

The iPhone maker, one of the fastest-growing smartphone brands in India, argued that the use of global turnover to determine fines under India’s new antitrust law is “unconstitutional, grossly disproportionate, and unjust.” If upheld, Apple could face fines of up to $38 billion, according to Reuters.

Background of the Case

The CCI has been investigating complaints filed by an alliance of Indian startups and Match Group (Tinder owner), alleging Apple engaged in “abusive conduct” by forcing developers to use its payment system for in-app purchases, which incurs high commissions. Apple has denied these allegations.

In December 2021, the CCI stated its prima facie view that Apple’s mandatory use of its in-app purchase (IAP) system restricted developers’ choice for payment processing. The final verdict from the CCI is still pending.

Apple’s Performance in India

• Q3 2025 shipments: 5 million iPhones, Apple’s highest-ever quarterly shipments in India (IDC data)
• Annual forecast: Expected to sell about 15 million iPhones in India in 2025, potentially ranking among the top five smartphone brands in the country
• Exports from India: $12.8 billion in 2024, a 42% increase from the previous year, as Apple diversifies its manufacturing away from China

Apple’s legal challenge highlights the tension between global tech firms and Indian regulators, especially amid India’s growing tech market and stricter antitrust enforcement.