United Kingdom: Competition and Markets Authority opened consultation on revised merger remedies guidance

On 16 October 2025, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) opened a consultation on the revised merger remedies guidance, until 13 November 2025. The guidance updates the 2018 framework to reflect the CMA’s “4Ps” principles, including pace, predictability, proportionality, and process, aimed at improving efficiency, transparency, and business confidence. The proposed guidance expands the circumstances under which behavioural remedies may be accepted, clarifying that while structural remedies remain preferred, behavioural solutions can be effective in certain cases, and their risks can be mitigated. It also notes that remedies may secure efficiencies and customer benefits that promote competition, supporting pro-growth deals beneficial to UK consumers. In addition, the updated guidance also reflects recent procedural changes aimed at increasing transparency and engagement with merging businesses, potentially enabling earlier case clearance.