Clifford Chance

European Commission consults on improving merger control

10 July 2014

The European Commission (EC) is consulting on proposals to reform the EU merger control regime.  The plans include an eye-catching proposal to extend the EC's powers of review to acquisitions of non-controlling stakes where there is a competitive link.

The reforms would also make case referrals between the EC and EU Member States more effective, and make certain procedures less onerous (including exempting review of joint ventures that operate only outside the EEA).

While the EC's willingness to streamline its procedures should be welcomed, businesses will be concerned at plans to extend the EC's powers of review to non-controlling interests.

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