Following a lengthy consultation period, the European Commission published its draft guidelines for merger control last week. These guidelines will serve as the basis for reviewing major mergers in Europe and deciding whether to approve or block them. Our initial reaction: the draft is cause for concern and potentially lays the groundwork for greater market concentration in Europe.
Ursula von der Leyen has halted a previously planned multibillion-euro fine against Google at the last minute. In an open letter released today, more than 30 organizations are calling on the Commission President to impose the fine promptly and thus effectively enforce the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
US tech companies are doing everything they can to undermine the enforcement of European laws. The EU must not allow itself to be intimidated by this. On the contrary. The European Commission must act decisively now and set the course.
Together with companies, NGOs and consumer protection organizations, we are calling on the EU Commission to take action against Google’s non-compliance with the Digital Markets Act. Especially in turbulent times like these, it is important that the EU stands by its principles and protects European citizens and companies from the abuse of power by dominant tech companies.
