France’s competition watchdog has dismissed a complaint by Paris-based search engine Qwant that accused Microsoft of abusing market power in search syndication and related online advertising.
The Autorité de la Concurrence said Qwant failed to provide evidence that Microsoft holds a dominant position in the market described in the filing, and rejected a request for interim measures. In a detailed statement, the authority noted that syndication services are supplied by both Google and Microsoft, and that any syndication market is closely linked to search-related advertising where, according to the European Commission, Google has an ultra-dominant position.
“The Autorité considers that Qwant failed to provide sufficient evidence to demonstrate that Microsoft is in a dominant position in the market described in its complaint or that the conditions for abuse of economic dependence are met,” the regulator said.
Qwant had alleged exclusivity restrictions, tied selling of organic and paid results, discrimination in access to search advertising, and limitations on developing its own artificial intelligence model. It also argued that Microsoft’s conduct created economic dependence. The authority found insufficient proof on each claim and said alternative solutions exist, pointing to Qwant’s own search capabilities and a joint syndication offering launched in June 2025 with Ecosia based on their technology. “The Autorité therefore concludes that Qwant is not economically dependent on Microsoft,” the statement added.
Qwant has historically relied on Microsoft’s Bing technology to deliver search and news results, and last month said it expected its complaint to be dismissed and would challenge the outcome in court or take it to other authorities.
Microsoft welcomed the decision. “We agree with the decision and remain committed to providing high-quality search services and fostering innovation for consumers and partners in France and across Europe,” a Microsoft spokesperson said.
The case shines a light on the mechanics of search markets, where unpaid algorithmic results and paid ads are delivered side by side, and where syndication lets smaller engines source results from larger platforms. The authority highlighted the role of advertising platforms, naming Google Ads and Microsoft Advertising as the two main players.
Microsoft is a significant supplier of search syndication in Europe, providing results to engines including Ecosia, DuckDuckGo and Lilo. Qwant did not immediately respond to requests for comment following the ruling.
The Autorité’s decision closes the matter for now within its remit, while leaving Qwant the option to seek recourse in court or before other regulators.
