Keve Urges Cypriot Businesses to Engage in EU Merger Rules Consultation

The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve) this week called on businesses in Cyprus to take part in the European Commission’s ongoing public consultation on the review of EU merger rules, underlining the importance of ensuring that future regulations reflect the realities faced by smaller markets.

The consultation focuses on the guidelines of Council Regulation (EC) No. 139/2004, which governs the control of concentrations between undertakings, covering both horizontal and non-horizontal mergers. The current review seeks to modernise these guidelines in light of digitalisation, the green transition, geopolitical shifts, and the growing need for resilience and innovation.

“Concentrations” refer to mergers or acquisitions between companies that have the potential to significantly affect competition. When two businesses merge, or one takes over another, the European Commission evaluates the deal to prevent monopolistic structures or unfair competitive practices.

Keve emphasised that such mergers, especially when involving large companies, can reshape market conditions, influence prices, and impact access to customers and suppliers. For businesses aiming to pursue strategic partnerships or expansion, a clear and predictable regulatory environment is essential.

“The rules that will be shaped affect the day-to-day operations and prospects of every business,” Keve said, stressing that Cypriot businesses should have an active role in the process. The Chamber pointed out that Cyprus, as a small and open economy closely tied to developments in Europe, has significant interests at stake in sectors such as services, technology, tourism, and innovation.

“Cypriot companies can express the needs and challenges they face in practice,” the Chamber said. “They have the opportunity to influence the rules so that they are fairer and more applicable to smaller markets,” it added. Keve also noted that active participation could help create a regulatory framework that boosts competitiveness, innovation, and growth throughout the EU.

The consultation will remain open until September 3, 2025. Members of the public can submit their input in any official EU language through the European Union’s “Have your say” online platform. Participants must have an EU Login account, the European Commission’s official identification system, to provide feedback. Those without an account can register online by entering their email, name, and password, and confirming these details via email before logging in to access the consultation and submit comments.

“Your contribution to this consultation is valuable, and we invite you to participate actively in shaping the future of the single market,” said Stalo Demosthenous, Director of Services, Trade, and Digitalisation at Keve. The Chamber confirmed it stands ready to assist any business wishing to engage in the process.

By fLEXI tEAM