Background & Purpose

Changes in EU regulations regarding digital markets and foreign subsidies require Sweden to update its national laws. This ensures Sweden can effectively support the EU in enforcing fair competition.

Proposals & Debate

The government proposed giving the Swedish Competition Authority (Konkurrensverket) new tools to help the EU Commission. This includes allowing them to request help from the Swedish Enforcement Authority for on-site inspections and to conduct investigations themselves when the EU suspects foreign subsidies are distorting the market.

The Decision

The Swedish Parliament approved the government's bill, giving the Swedish Competition Authority expanded powers to enforce new EU competition rules.

Does this affect you?

  • Companies in Sweden: May face investigations by the Swedish Competition Authority if suspected of receiving unfair foreign subsidies.
  • Swedish Competition Authority: Gains new tools and responsibilities to enforce EU competition law and assist the EU Commission.
  • EU Commission: Receives stronger support from Sweden in enforcing competition rules and investigating market distortions.

In Practice

  • The Swedish Competition Authority can ask the Swedish Enforcement Authority for help with on-site inspections for the EU Commission.
  • The Swedish Competition Authority can conduct its own investigations into foreign subsidies at the EU Commission's request.
  • These investigations aim to find out if foreign subsidies are unfairly affecting the EU's internal market.
  • The new rules will apply from December 1, 2024.