For the revision of the guidelines, the European Commission commissioned a study on the effects of mergers. The contract went to the economic consulting firm Oxera, which simultaneously advises companies on mergers and represents their interests. This leads to serious conflicts of interest.
At the end of April 2026, the European Commission published its draft merger guidelines. The guidelines set forth how and according to what criteria business mergers are reviewed. We have submitted written comments on this matter and, in light of increasing market concentration in Europe, are calling for stricter guidelines.
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.
The European Commission is currently revising its merger guidelines. We are closely monitoring this process and are advocating for a strengthening of the guidelines. Only recently, we have been participating in workshops organised by the Commission.
