Part 3: New Simplified Merger Control Procedure

On 20 April 2023 the European Commission adopted a package of new merger control rules and procedures, which will enter into force on 1 September 2023.

In particular, the rules broaden and clarify the categories of cases that may be dealt with under the simplified and less extensive procedure (so-called "simplified cases") and simplify the normal merger control process.

In addition to extending the scope within which the Commission deals with non-problematic mergers, it simplifies the administrative procedure for merging undertakings. According to the Commission, the initiative is expected to reduce reporting requirements by 25%.

More cases can benefit from the simplified procedure in the future