| Points of View | Competition & Regulatory

Hannes Snellman Contributed Finnish Chapter to Lexology In-Depth: Public Competition Enforcement 2026

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Mikko Huimala and Niko Haarahiltunen from our Competition & Regulatory Team have contributed a chapter on Finland to Lexology In-Depth: Public Competition Enforcement 2026, which provides insights on the most important and relevant developments in public competition law enforcement in the most significant jurisdictions worldwide.

Key takeaways from the Finland chapter include:

  • Merger control remains central to Finnish competition enforcement: Merger control continues to be the Finnish Competition and Consumer Authority’s (FCCA) most active enforcement area. In 2025, the authority issued 68 merger decisions, with only a few cases proceeding to Phase II, all of which were cleared unconditionally. Despite lower filing thresholds introduced in 2023, the FCCA remains concerned about potentially harmful concentrations escaping review and continues to advocate for call‑in powers. It has also begun assessing certain below‑threshold transactions under the EU Towercast doctrine.
  • Procedural infringements are increasingly sanctioned: Enforcement practice has shifted towards stricter procedural compliance. Finland saw its first penalty for obstructing an FCCA inspection and the first proposed fine for providing incorrect and misleading information during an investigation.
  • Cartel enforcement and procedural reform remain in focus: Cartel enforcement continues to be a priority, as illustrated by the conclusion of major cases such as the Turku public transport bid rigging proceedings. At the same time, Finland is considering reforms aimed at streamlining competition proceedings, including the possibility of granting the FCCA direct fining powers.

These developments underline the importance of proactive compliance and early competition law assessment.

The full chapter is available here.

Hannes Snellman advises clients on the most challenging competition and regulatory issues, particularly in matters relating to competition law, antitrust, merger control, and domestic and foreign state aid. Please contact us should you wish to discuss any related questions.

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