NMa presents provisional plans for 2007

The Netherlands Competition Authority (NMa) has stated its intentions for 2007. Plans outlined in a consultation document published today, include a special focus on markets with only a few suppliers. The NMa invites those interested to react to the policy accents proposed. On the basis of this response, the NMa will finalise its plans by drawing up the NMa Agenda 2007.

'In 2007 also, we would like sound competition to be of maximum benefit to business and consumers', states Pieter Kalbfleisch, Chairman of the Board with the NMa. To be as effective as possible, the NMa has set out a number of priorities for 2007. Markets in which only a few suppliers are active (oligopolies) are given special attention. In this way, the NMa complies with wishes expressed by the House of Representatives of the Dutch Parliament. The NMa would also like to see more companies opt for voluntary notification of infringements, in exchange for a reduction of fines or even fine immunity. With a view to this, the NMa will explore further improvements to its leniency programme in 2007. The NMa also considers closer study of the relation between competition, intellectual property rights and innovation in Dutch business.

The NMa enforces competition in all sectors of the Dutch economy. It has renewed its research portfolio. The consultation document lists several sectors. The competition authority emphasises that all sectors may be subjected to investigation if there is cause. Furthermore, the growing trend in the number of mergers and acquisitions means the NMa foresees many activities in merger control in the coming year.

The Office of Energy Regulation (DTe) of the NMa specifically enforces regulation in the energy markets. For 2007 DTe has prioritised contributing to consumer confidence, as this will lead to an increase in switches, resulting in stronger incentives to competition. The Office of Transport Regulation supervises Schiphol Airport, the railway sector and public transport organised by municipal transport companies. In 2007 complaints on tariffs employed by Schiphol, will be dealt with for the first time.

The consultation document invites stakeholding parties and those with a general interest to share their views on the draft choices outlined by the NMa. Reactions to the consultation document may be submitted until 3 November 2006 at the latest. An English version of the document will be available shortly.