The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) has taken a proactive step in addressing concerns related to the abuse of market dominance by big tech companies. IAMAI has established a dedicated task force to scrutinize issues such as the Google Play Billing System (GPBS) and intellectual property matters, signaling a commitment to tackle broader concerns associated with the dominance of major tech players in the Indian market.
This initiative is distinct from a previously formed 40-member task force in September 2023, which also focused on examining specific Google policies. Murugavel Janakiraman, the founder of Bharat Matrimony and chairperson of the task force, highlighted that the team’s initial focus would be on GPBS and IP-related matters. Subsequently, the task force aims to delve into more extensive concerns surrounding the abuse of dominance by big tech companies operating in India.
The task force, comprising influential members from the startup community, was created in September last year to address concerns related to Google, particularly emphasizing the Google Play Billing System (GPBS). It is noteworthy that Google is also represented within this task force, indicating a collaborative effort to address industry challenges.
Janakiraman stated, “We will also begin work on a white paper that will analyze the impact that Big Tech’s policies are having on the Indian startup ecosystem. The task force will be in touch with government officials and policymakers and work towards bettering policy that will benefit the startup ecosystem.”
Developers have been vocal about Google’s alleged imposition of high commissions, making operations financially unsustainable for many startups. Although Google has reduced its fee in several rounds, maintaining the necessity to charge fees for operational sustainability, the concerns persist among developers.
IAMAI’s latest task force aligns with the organization’s evolving stance after Indian founders assumed positions in the governing council last year, replacing representatives from major tech firms. The move underscores IAMAI’s commitment to address the specific challenges faced by the Indian startup ecosystem.
In February, a collective of Indian startups appealed to Google, urging the search giant not to delist or take precipitative steps against any app developers until their special leave petition is heard in the Supreme Court on March 19. IAMAI has been actively advocating for Indian startups on issues like net neutrality, emphasizing the potential adverse impact of revenue-sharing models between startups and telecom companies on end-users.
