konkurrensregelverk

Konkurrensregelverk is the set of laws and regulations that govern competition within a jurisdiction, with the aim of ensuring markets function efficiently, innovatively and fairly for consumers and businesses. The rules address prohibitions on anti-competitive practices, governance of mergers and acquisitions, and procedures for monitoring and enforcing compliance.

A central element is the prohibition of anti-competitive agreements and concerted practices, such as price fixing, market sharing or rigging bids. In the European Union, these are primarily governed by Article 101 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) and implemented by national authorities. Abuse of a dominant market position, including practices like predatory pricing or exclusive dealing, is prohibited under Article 102 TFEU and corresponding national rules.

Merger control regulates substantial increases in market power arising from mergers and acquisitions. Competent authorities assess whether a deal would significantly impede competition and may prohibit the merger or require structural or behavioral remedies to maintain contestability.

State aid rules, procurement policies, and other competition-related instruments interact with the core regime, shaping how government actions and public contracts affect competition. Enforcement is carried out by national competition authorities—such as the Swedish Konkurrensverket in Sweden—and by the European Commission for matters affecting the EU, with penalties ranging from fines to orders to change conduct and, in some cases, divestiture. Private enforcement through damages claims by affected parties may supplement public enforcement.

Overall, konkurrensregelverk seeks to protect consumer welfare, promote efficient markets, and deter anti-competitive behavior across sectors.