Italy’s Antitrust Watchdog Calls for Hearing-Aid Market Overhaul

Italy’s Antitrust Authority has officially raised concerns regarding the state of the hearing-aid market within the country, following a detailed report sent to various governmental and health agencies. The report, aimed at parliament, the health and economy ministries, the nation’s regions, and the AGENAS health agency, highlights critical issues that demand immediate attention.

The authority’s investigation, initiated in September 2023, uncovered a “lack of transparency in the commercial conditions offered to the public,” casting a shadow over the market’s integrity. This lack of clarity has raised questions about the fairness and competitiveness of the hearing-aid sector.

Further findings revealed that the average cost of a hearing aid in Italy, ranging between 1,500 and 2,100 euros, surpasses that in other comparable countries. Additionally, the report criticized the level of support services provided to the public, describing them as inferior and inadequate.

In the wake of the report’s release, shares of Amplifon, a leading Italian hearing-aid company, experienced a significant drop. The company’s stock price fell by 5.2%, landing at €30.8 on the stock exchange, reflecting the market’s immediate reaction to the antitrust authority’s findings.