Special Report 85
In this report, the Monopolies Commission recommends strengthening the independence of the German Federal Cartel Office (Bundeskartellamt) from political influence. It also recommends a digital overhaul of the Office. The Monopolies Commission bases its recommendations on three criteria for a future-proof authority: independence (adherence to fundamental values), openness to change and effectiveness. The report was prompted by developments at competition authorities abroad and by far-reaching changes in the markets. Work began in late 2025.
We have seen in the US and elsewhere how powerful competition authorities can very quickly be undermined politically. That must not be allowed to happen to the Federal Cartel Office. It has been doing outstanding work since its foundation in 1958. We want to safeguard that for the future. At the same time, we believe the Cartel Office can improve even further, particularly through better digital working methods and a sharper focus on innovation.
Episode 20: Special Report 2026 – A Strong Federal Cartel Office
Episode 20: Special Report 2026 – A Strong Federal Cartel Office
In this podcast episode, Tomaso Duso, Rupprecht Podszun and Elif Senel discuss the findings of the special report.