European Union competition law helps maintain effective competition in the European Single Market. It seeks to prevent business conduct and public measures that undermine competition, while supporting consumer welfare and the operation of the internal market.
The European Commission, principally through its Directorate-General for Competition, has a central role in applying these rules. Other Commission departments may handle aid in particular fields, such as agriculture. Depending on the legal framework and case, national competition authorities and national courts also enforce EU competition rules.
All flashcards
What is the broad purpose of EU competition law?
It protects effective competition in the European Single Market by addressing anti-competitive conduct and measures that can harm the competitive process and consumers.
What are the four main policy areas of EU competition law?
Cartels and collusion under Article 101, abuse of dominance under Article 102, merger control, and state aid control under Article 107.
What is an undertaking under EU competition law?
An entity engaged in economic activity, regardless of its legal form or financing. Public ownership does not by itself prevent an entity from qualifying.
What did Regulation 1/2003 change?
It enabled national competition authorities and courts to apply Articles 101 and 102 fully, while preserving Commission coordination.
What is the European Competition Network?
The ECN is the cooperation network of the Commission and national competition authorities, supporting information sharing and consistent application of EU competition rules.
Quiz questions
Which combination describes conduct that can fall within Article 101(1) TFEU?Answer: An agreement, association decision, or concerted practice that may affect trade between Member States and restrict competition.
Which description best captures the EU-law concept of a dominant position?Answer: A position that lets an undertaking act to an appreciable extent independently of competitors, customers, and consumers.
What is the principal substantive test for assessing a concentration under the EU Merger Regulation?Answer: Whether it would significantly impede effective competition in the internal market or a substantial part of it.
Under the Commission's cartel leniency policy, what may the first qualifying applicant receive?Answer: Immunity from fines, if it meets the applicable conditions and provides the required cooperation.
Which set of elements broadly describes state aid under Article 107(1) TFEU?Answer: State resources, a selective advantage to an undertaking, possible distortion of competition, and possible effects on Member State trade.