Competition and Markets Authority

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is the UK's primary competition regulator. It investigates mergers that could reduce competition, scrutinizes business practices that may be anti-competitive, and enforces consumer protection laws. The CMA is in the news due to several ongoing investigations and concerns about potential market abuses. Recently, it has launched an investigation into Associated British Foods' (ABF) planned takeover of Hovis, a move that would combine two major bread brands. Additionally, a class action lawsuit has been filed against Apple, alleging anti-competitive practices related to Apple Pay. These actions highlight the CMA's role in ensuring fair competition and protecting consumers from potential harm caused by monopolies or unfair business practices across various sectors, from food to technology.