CCS Consults on Proposed Changes to its Procedural Guidelines for Mergers

(View Media Release in PDF)

The Competition Commission of Singapore (CCS) is seeking feedback on proposed changes to its guidelines for procedures relating to the review of mergers under the Competition Act1 .

On 1 July 2007, the section 54 prohibition of the Competition Act (Chapter 50B) (the Act) on mergers that result in a substantial lessening of competition came into force. On the same date, CCS also issued its “Guidelines on Merger Procedures” to explain the circumstances in which mergers should be notified to CCS for decision and to set out CCS’ procedures for reviewing mergers.

CCS has reviewed the Guidelines and proposed amendments to reflect almost five years of its experience in applying the merger provisions of the Act. The key aims of the review are to increase transparency of CCS’ merger review procedures, to streamline the process of merger notification in order to minimise the burdens on businesses, as well as maximise the benefits of the voluntary merger notification system in Singapore. The proposed changes also reflected informal feedback given by stakeholders and took into account current international recognised best practice.

Public Feedback

1. The consultation documents can be downloaded from the CCS website at “www.ccs.gov.sg” under the section "Public Register and Consultation" ( “Public Register and Consultation-Active") and the Government Online Consultation Portal at “www.reach.gov.sg”.

2. The closing date for submission is 20 March 2012. Full details relating to the manner of response are included in the consultation document.

About the Competition Commission of Singapore

The CCS is a statutory body established under the Competition Act (Cap 50B) on 1 January 2005 to administer and enforce the Act. It comes under the purview of the Ministry of Trade and Industry.

CCS’ mission is championing competition for growth and choice. CCS does this through a two-pronged approach: enforcing the Competition Act and advocating competition. Its mission will help realize the vision of a vibrant Singapore economy with competitive markets and innovative businesses.

For more information on CCS, visit www.ccs.gov.sg.

For media clarification, please contact:
Cynthia Chin
Senior Assistant Director
Corporate Communications
Competition Commission of Singapore
DID: 6325 8216
Email: cynthia_chin@ccs.gov.sg