The European Commission and the Competition authorities across all Member states and in the European Economic Area, have issued a joint statement on the application of European competition rules during the present coronavirus crisis. The Authorities have recognised the social and economic impact of the crisis and jointly underline that while under competition rules, competitors cannot cooperate amongst themselves in the supply and distribution of goods, in the present circumstances, the competition authorities will not intervene against temporary measures of collaboration put in place in order to avoid a shortage of supply.

At the same time, the Competition Office wishes to point out that it will not hesitate to take action against companies taking advantage of the current situation by setting up cartels or abusing of a dominant position.