The Commission's preliminary
investigation indicated potential competition concerns in the markets
of pre-impregnated paper and abrasive paper backings, where
the new company would have high market shares both in the European Economic Area
and worldwide. The decision to open an in-depth inquiry does not
prejudge the result of the investigation. The Commission now has 90
working days, until 29 April 2013, to take a final decision on whether
the transaction would reduce effective competition in the EEA.
Commission Vice President in charge of competition policy Joaquín
Almunia said: “This proposed merger in the paper industry would remove
a competitor from some markets which are already highly concentrated.
The Commission needs to make sure that effective competition is
preserved and prevent harm to customers, particularly when the only few
available sources of supply are at stake."
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