Microsoft facing new antitrust investigation

Microsoft is facing yet another antitrust investigation, this time from Taiwan. Their Fair Trade Commission is investigating whether Microsoft is monopolizing the island’s software market, and is also investigating whether the software giant is abusing that position. The agency launched its investigation after receiving numerous complaints about unfair pricing and the company’s decision to discontinue sales of Windows XP.

“We fully intend to comply with the process and make sure they get all the information they need,” said Matt Pilla, Microsoft’s director of public relations in Asia.

Should Microsoft be found guilt of the charges, they will face a fine of up to $797,361 and be forced to change it’s business practices in Taiwan. This is not the first time Taiwan’s Fair Trade Commission has taken aim at Microsoft. In 2004 they were involved in resolving disputes about Windows Media Player, and in 2003 reached a settlement regarding the bundling of Microsoft Office.