The European Commission has initiated a Call for Evidence and a public consultation, seeking feedback on revising EU competition rule procedures. This step follows an evaluation completed in September 2024, which identified areas needing adjustment due to changes like digitalisation. Stakeholders have until October 2, 2025, to submit their views.
On September 5, 2024, the Commission released a Staff Working Document summarising the evaluation of Regulation 1/2003 and Regulation 773/2004. The findings confirmed that while these regulations effectively enforce EU competition rules, there is room for improvement in areas such as investigation speed and enforcement tools adaptation.
The revision process will focus on enhancing antitrust enforcement efficiency. Key areas include investigative powers, decision-making processes, access to Commission files, participation in investigations by complainants and third parties, and co-enforcement with national authorities.
Stakeholders can express their opinions through the public consultation questionnaire until October 2, 2025. Feedback will be available on the Commission’s ‘Have Your Say’ platform. Additionally, a workshop will be held later this year to address key issues based on gathered feedback.
The insights from these activities will guide the Commission’s reform proposal for Regulation 1/2003. A draft legislative proposal is expected by September 2026.
Regulation 1/2003 and Regulation 773/2004 provide a framework for applying Articles 101 and 102 of the TFEU. These articles address anti-competitive agreements and abuse of market dominance by companies.
For further information, visit the Commission’s competition website or contact spokesperson Lea Zuber at +32 2 29 56298 or [email protected] or press officer Sara Simonini at +32 2 29 83367 or [email protected].
