konkurentsinõuded

Konkurentsinõuded refers to a legal concept within Estonian law concerning claims that arise from competition law violations. These are typically civil claims brought by parties who have suffered damages as a direct result of anti-competitive practices. Such practices can include cartels, abuse of a dominant market position, or illegal state aid.

The purpose of konkurentsinõuded is to provide a remedy for those harmed by anti-competitive behavior, allowing them to seek compensation for their losses. This compensation aims to restore the injured party to the position they would have been in had the competition law violation not occurred. Damages can include lost profits, costs incurred, and other demonstrable financial losses.

These claims are typically pursued in civil courts. The burden of proof lies with the claimant, who must demonstrate both the existence of an anti-competitive practice and the causal link between that practice and their alleged damages. Evidence can be complex and may involve economic analysis.

The Estonian Competition Act and related EU competition law principles form the legal basis for such claims. While competition authorities (like the Estonian Competition Authority) focus on enforcing competition law and imposing sanctions, konkurentsinõuded are a mechanism for private parties to seek redress. The development and application of konkurentsinõuded are crucial for ensuring effective competition and protecting market participants from unfair practices.