The EU is revising merger rules to keep pace with the US and China: reduced state control, more power for companies

The European Union intends to revise the rules regarding mergers to allow European companies to compete more effectively with American and Chinese giants.

A document obtained by the Financial Times shows that Brussels aims to limit the intervention of national states in corporate takeovers, which often protect national champions, thus affecting the single market. The proposed changes could clarify the circumstances under which interventions are justified, increasing certainty for businesses.

Recently, several member states, such as Germany and Spain, have blocked significant mergers, raising concerns at the level of the European Commission. The changes are eagerly awaited by companies and investors, in the context in which European leaders will discuss the topic at Thursday's summit. The Commission will continue to protect against excessive market concentration but will also encourage pro-competitive expansion to strengthen Europe's global competitiveness.