Does EU competition policy need reform?

Today, the European Policy Centre (EPC) and BusinessEurope organised a Policy Dialogue to discuss whether EU competition policy needs reform. The event brought together stakeholders, representatives of EU Member States and the European Commission.

EU competition policy plays an essential role in Europe and globally and the fundamental objective of EU competition rules is to prevent distortion of competition. But the context in which European businesses operate is changing. Challenges now relate to the lack of a global level playing field, the emergence of the digital economy and the need to strengthen the EU’s competitiveness. Uncertainties and burdens when it comes to competition law-related procedures should also be looked at. Timing is important in fast moving markets to preserve competition and allow companies to remain competitive. An urgent reflection on possible adjustments to competition policy is therefore needed.