Competition Bureau and European Commission Move Towards Greater Cooperation

Ottawa, April 18, 2007 – Yesterday, Sheridan Scott, Commissioner of Competition, met with the Competition Directorate General of the European Commission (EC) in Washington to discuss enforcement and policy issues relating to competition law.

The two agencies are currently considering options for building upon their existing 1999 Agreement, Agreement Between the Government of Canada and the European Communities Regarding the Application of their Competition Laws , and enhancing cooperation. The Agreement seeks to promote cooperation and coordination between Canada and the European Communities, and minimize any differences between the competition agencies in the application of their competition laws.

To improve communication and cooperation between the two agencies, the Bureau and the EC also agreed in principle to undertake a staff exchange in the near future. Through exchanges, staff develop a better understanding of the other competition authority’s enforcement regime, laws and challenges. They also provide an opportunity to identify best practices and share information on enforcement and policy initiatives, while allowing participants to further develop their professional and technical skills.

The Competition Bureau is an independent law enforcement agency. We contribute to the prosperity of Canadians by protecting and promoting competitive markets and enabling informed consumer choice.

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Marilyne Nahum
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(819) 953-9760

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Competition Bureau
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1-800-348-5358