Mergers: Commission approves Hutchison/VimpelCom joint venture in Italy, subject to conditions

On the 1 September 2016, the European Commission approved the proposed telecommunications joint venture between Hutchison and VimpelCom in Italy. However, the approval is conditional, because it was necessary to ensure that the Italian mobile sector remains competitive. In order to address Commission’s concerns, Hutchison and VimpelCom offered a strong remedy that enables a new French mobile network operator, Iliad, to enter the Italian market. The consumers can therefore continue to benefit from effective competition.

European Commission: DG Communication: RAPID: STATEMENT/16/2934, 01.09.16: Statement by Commissioner Vestager on Commission decision to approve Hutchison/VimpelCom joint venture in Italy, subject to conditions http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_STATEMENT-16-2934_en.htm

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