Competition and Markets Authority

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is the UK's primary competition regulator, responsible for promoting competition for the benefit of consumers, both within and outside the United Kingdom. It investigates mergers, markets, and conducts enforcement action against businesses engaging in anti-competitive practices such as price-fixing, cartels, and abuse of dominant market positions. The CMA is currently newsworthy due to several ongoing investigations and interventions across various sectors. Recent activities include probes into potentially misleading online reviews on platforms like Autotrader and Just Eat, scrutiny of veterinary service pricing, and an investigation into Associated British Foods' planned takeover of Hovis. These actions highlight the CMA's commitment to ensuring fair pricing, transparency, and competitive markets across diverse industries, from online services to essential goods and services like veterinary care and bread production. The CMA's work is particularly relevant now as consumers face rising costs and increasing reliance on digital platforms.