Meta Platforms is once again under scrutiny in Europe. The European Commission has officially warned that Meta EU daily fines could begin accruing if the company’s revised pay‑or‑consent model fails to meet the strict standards of the Digital Markets Act compliance.
Background on the DMA & Meta’s Fine
In April 2025, Meta received a €200 million penalty for offering Facebook and Instagram users a binary choice: agree to personalized ads or pay for ad‑free access. While Meta updated the model in November 2024—limiting the use of personal data—the Commission has deemed those changes insufficient, putting the company on notice for Meta EU daily fines of up to 5% of its global daily turnover.
What Could Trigger the Daily Fines?
The Commission concluded it is still evaluating whether Meta’s modifications meet DMA standards. If found non‑compliant, fines could kick in retroactively from June 27, 2025. These Meta EU daily fines are designed to pressure Meta into full compliance within the legally mandated 60-day period.
Meta’s Response & Ongoing Dispute
Meta has defended the changes, arguing they go “well beyond” what DMA requires. The company calls the enforcement discriminatory, claiming EU regulators are shifting goalposts. Meanwhile, Meta is preparing to appeal both the original €200 million fine and any future Meta EU daily fines .
Implications & What to Watch
- Industry precedent: Meta is only the second major tech firm penalized under the DMA—the first was Apple (fined €500 million).
- Global enforcement: The DMA empowers the EU to independently regulate Big Tech, irrespective of trade relations with the U.S.
- Eyes ahead: A follow-up review is scheduled for July 3, 2025; the Commission may confirm the imposition of Meta EU daily fines following that meeting.
Conclusion
Meta’s ongoing standoff with the EU highlights a critical turning point in global tech regulation. With Meta EU daily fines potentially looming, the company must quickly and convincingly demonstrate Digital Markets Act compliance to avoid significant financial consequences. The July 3 review will be pivotal.
