Microsoft is about to write a multi-million dollar check to CISPE to settle its EU antitrust lawsuit.

The complaint dates back to 2022 and relates to the way Microsoft markets its cloud products, which leads to unfair competition. That year, Cloud Infrastructure Service Providers in Europe (CISPE) issued Microsoft an ultimatum demanding that the American giant stop unfair competition or face legal action. Microsoft is now reportedly in the process of writing a multi-million dollar check to CISPE to dismiss the EU’s antitrust lawsuit. An agreement has not yet been reached.

Antitrust complaint from Microsoft

Microsoft has been facing an antitrust lawsuit for several years alleging unfair competition with its cloud products. The company discounts its software when it is bundled with Azure cloud services, meaning the cost of running Microsoft products outside of Azure is higher.

Microsoft is reportedly willing to pay a significant amount to CISPE if it withdraws the complaint or makes concessions that would avoid a lengthy EU investigation into the company’s practices, which could subsequently result in a fine and demands for changes.

However, lobby group CISPE told The Register: “Discussions with Microsoft are ongoing and proposals have been made.” However, no agreement has yet been reached. CISPE remains committed to a principles-based solution to end the damaging impact of unfair software licensing practices for all cloud customers who want to run productivity software in the cloud of their choice.”

Not the first time

This is not the first time Microsoft has faced an antitrust lawsuit. Late last year, Google filed a complaint against Microsoft for unfair practices. In addition, Microsoft was also named one of the six major gatekeepers under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and must therefore comply with stricter rules.