ACM launches ‘The Government and Free Markets Test’
The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has launched an online test with which local governments, provinces, the central government and water authorities can see whether the rules of conduct laid down in the Dutch Act on Government and Free Markets apply to their situation.
Anita Vegter, Member of the Board of ACM, explains: “Fair competition by government agencies promotes opportunities and options for businesses and consumers. That is why rules of conduct for government agencies have been laid down in the Dutch Act on Government and Free Markets.”
In the online test, ACM gives a lot of information about the rules and exceptions of the Dutch Act on Government and Free Markets. Government agencies are thus able to check what activities may negatively affect competition, and what they can do to solve this.
From July 1, 2014, the Dutch Act on Government and Free Markets will apply to all economic activities of the central government and other government agencies. After July 1, 2014, ACM will monitor whether the central government and other government agencies stick to the rules.
- The Government and Free Markets Test (in Dutch)
Publication of examples of economic activities
ACM has published several illustrative and practical examples of economic activities in a book (in Dutch). Using these examples, it quickly becomes clear in what situations the Dutch Act on Government and Free Markets is applicable. This book can be ordered by filling out this form (in Dutch). Enter your postal address in the field for the email address, and mention in the field ‘Stel uw vraag’ (Ask your question) that you wish to order the book on Government and Free Markets.