Spanish competition regulator CNMC has announced the launch of a probe to look into the country’s wholesale distribution of medication. The probe has been motivated by possible barriers to competition detected by the regulator, attributed to the current structure of the market.
The CNMC has said it recognizes the need to protect the public interest, which is inherent in the regulation of this market. However, they add, it is also essential for regulation to adhere to the principles of necessity and proportionality, avoiding the introduction or protection of unfair restrictions to competition.
The preliminary investigation by the CNMC has detected a seres of possible restrictions to competition, which will be elaborated upon during further investigations. The analysis will be complemented by a study into alternative mechanisms, such as centralized purchasing or public auction contracts, in order to determine their impact on prices and market efficiency. The probe will also look to study the design and usage of both of these mechanisms as tools for introducing greater competition in the sector.
Full Content: CNMC
Want more news? Subscribe to CPI’s free daily newsletter for more headlines and updates on antitrust developments around the world.
Featured News
Pennsylvania Governor Opposes Nippon Steel’s Bid for U.S. Steel, Citing Union Concerns
Jul 30, 2024 by
CPI
Live Nation Attorneys Granted Limited Access to Confidential Documents in Antitrust Case
Jul 30, 2024 by
CPI
UK’s CMA Deepens Investigation into Amex GBT’s Acquisition of CWT
Jul 30, 2024 by
CPI
EU Regulators Advocate Formalizing Disinformation Code Under DSA
Jul 30, 2024 by
CPI
Spain’s Antitrust Watchdog Slaps Booking.com with €413.2 Million Fine for Market Abuses
Jul 30, 2024 by
CPI
Antitrust Mix by CPI
Antitrust Chronicle® – International Trade & Antitrust
Jul 26, 2024 by
CPI
What is Wrong with the WTO Discipline on Subsidies?
Jul 26, 2024 by
CPI
The Abiding Tension Between Trade Remedy Law and Antitrust
Jul 26, 2024 by
CPI
Trade and Antitrust: An End to Isolationism
Jul 26, 2024 by
CPI
International Trade Law and Domestic Regulation of Generative Artificial Intelligence: Divergent Approaches?
Jul 26, 2024 by
CPI