The European Commission is expected to fine computer chip maker
Intel this week for breaking European rules against monopolies.
Brussels-based lawyers believe the fine is likely to be one of
the highest anti-monopoly fines in Europe so far, according to
The
Wall Street Journal.
European rules allow for a fine of up to 10% of revenue, which
means the fine could be as high as $3.8bn based on Intel's revenue
for 2008.
Since 2000, the EC has issued combined fines of over $1bn
against
Microsoft for anti-competitive practises.
The charges against Intel stem from complaints made in 2000 by
competitor Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), which accused Intel of
anti-competitive practices.
European investigators alleged that Intel had paid computer
makers rebates to limit their use of AMD chips and selling chips at
below cost to win deals.
Intel also allegedly paid a major retailer not to stock
computers containing AMD chips.
The EC is expected to approve punitive action against Intel at a
meeting of commissioners on Wednesday.
Intel has refused to comment, saying news of the pending
decision amounts to rumours and speculation.