United Kingdom: Launched CMA market investigation into cloud services

On 5 October 2023, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) launched a market investigation into the supply of public cloud infrastructure services in the UK following a referral from the UK Office of Communications (Ofcom). The investigation aims to examine the public cloud infrastructure services market, identifying potential competition concerns and proposing measures to improve the supply of cloud services for UK customers. The CMA will take into account Ofcom's report outlining concerns regarding software licensing practices, egress fees, discounts and technical barriers to switching which hinder customer flexibility. An independent panel appointed by the CMA, serving as decision-makers, will release an issues statement outlining the investigation's focus for consultation. The CMA anticipates concluding the investigation by April 2025.