Global trends in merger control enforcement in 2020

We have collected and analysed data on merger control activity in 2020 for 26 jurisdictions, with a particular focus on the EU, UK, U.S. and China.

Despite the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on global M&A activity in 2020, we saw no let-up in antitrust authorities’ tough approach to merger control enforcement. Considering reforms to merger control rules remained a priority, particularly in the digital sector.

As we progress through 2021, we expect to see many of the merger control proposals on the table translate into practice. Going forward, merging parties should prepare for greater scrutiny of M&A, including in relation to foreign investment control reviews, combined with increasingly sophisticated merger control assessments.

Report highlights

• Antitrust intervention targeted life sciences and transport sectors but the global focus was on digital.
• New and tougher foreign investment controls increased obstacles.
• Procedural merger control enforcement stayed firmly on the agenda.
• Remedies cases remained high as authorities coordinated outcomes.
• Merger review periods stayed steady despite the pandemic.

Overview