Report on Competition Policy 2022

Background

In this opinion the EESC gives its views on the Commission’s report on EU competition policy in 2022. This is an annual report that summarises the developments in competition policy and its enforcement, and their role in preserving the integrity of the single market.

The 2022 report covers, among other things, the implications for competition policy of the Covid-19 pandemic, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, instability in the energy supply, entry into force of the Digital Markets Act and market-distortive subsidies by third countries.

The report also highlights the Commission’s role in mitigating external economic shocks and ensuring that competition rules remain fit for the future.

Key points

The EESC suggests;

• that the Commission’s competition action should also cover distortions originating from outside the EU, to address their effect on European businesses that comply with EU legislation. The Commission's action on foreign subsidies is a first step, but this needs to be extended to other areas;
• that the Commission assess the distortions of competition resulting from the COVID-19 State Aid Temporary Framework, together with other European funds. It should urge Member States to correct the mistakes, hasty measures and unequal treatment that have occurred as a result of COVID. While these were understandable in an unprecedented state of emergency, now it is time to restore conditions where competition can thrive and businesses are treated equally;
• constant support and monitoring of the large-scale retail market as part of antitrust policy to protect the interests of producers and consumers and allow supply chains to function properly;
• using state aid rules to support the green and digital transition, provided that such aid is conditional on the achievement of strict targets which, if not achieved, would require aid received to be returned.

Link to full opinion

Additional information

EESC section responsible: Single Market, Production and Consumption (INT)

Opinion type: optional consultation

Rapporteur: Paulo BARROS VALE   (Employers – PT)

References: COM(2023) 184 final

Date of adoption by section: 03/10/2023

Result of the vote: 77 votes in favour, 1 against, with 1 abstention

Date of adoption by plenary: 25/10/2023

Result of the vote: 161 votes in favour, 0 against, with 2 abstentions

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