Recent news surrounding the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has focused on its investigations into various sectors, particularly in technology and fuel retail. The CMA is scrutinizing a major tech giant that dominates 90% of web searches in the UK, assessing whether its market power harms consumers and competitors. Additionally, the CMA has raised concerns about persistently high profit margins among fuel retailers, prompting calls for regulatory action. The authority has also been involved in reviewing significant mergers, recently determining that a proposed merger between two companies did not meet the necessary threshold for further investigation.
The Competition and Markets Authority is a non-ministerial government department in the United Kingdom, established to promote competition and prevent anti-competitive practices. Launched in shadow form in 2013, the CMA took over functions from the Office of Fair Trading and the Competition Commission. Its primary objectives include ensuring fair competition in markets, protecting consumer interests, and investigating mergers and acquisitions that may reduce competition. The CMA plays a crucial role in maintaining market integrity and fostering a competitive economy in the UK.
