versenyjog

Versenyjog, or competition law, is the area of law that governs how markets operate and aims to preserve fair competition. It prohibits agreements or concerted practices between independent undertakings that restrict competition, abuses of a dominant market position, and it governs the control of concentrations through mergers and acquisitions. It also covers rules on state aid to ensure public support does not distort competition.

In Hungary, the main national body enforcing versenyjog is the Gazdasági Versenyhivatal (GVH), the Hungarian Competition Authority. The GVH investigates suspected infringements, issues decisions, and may impose fines, remedies, and other measures. The Hungarian framework operates alongside European Union competition law. EU competition rules prohibit agreements or practices that prevent, restrict, or distort competition (Articles 101-102 TFEU) and require that certain mergers or acquisitions with a potential cross-border impact are notified to and scrutinized by the European Commission. National rules complement EU law and apply to conduct with both national and EU-wide effects.

Businesses may be subject to prohibitions on cartels, price-fixing, market sharing, bid-rigging, and other collusive practices; abuse of a dominant position can include unfair pricing, discrimination, or limiting production. Concentrations that may significantly impede effective competition are subject to notification and formal approval; the GVH or the European Commission can require remedies or block deals.

Private enforcement allows individuals and companies to seek damages for harm caused by anti-competitive conduct through court actions. Sanctions aim to deter violations and protect consumer welfare and market efficiency.