Competition Law at Slovenia
Competition law in Slovenia is closely aligned with European Union (EU) competition rules since Slovenia is an EU member state. The framework promotes fair competition, prevents anti-competitive conduct, and protects consumers.
🏛️ Governing Authority
Agency for the Protection of Competition (Agencija za varstvo konkurence, AVK)
The independent authority responsible for enforcing competition law in Slovenia.
Investigates cartels, abuse of dominance, merger control, and unfair competition.
Courts
Hear appeals against AVK decisions and private enforcement claims.
📜 Legal Framework
Competition Act (Zakon o varstvu konkurence, ZVarK-1)
The main Slovenian competition law statute.
Fully harmonized with EU competition law principles.
European Union Competition Law
Articles 101 and 102 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) apply directly.
AVK cooperates with the European Commission and other EU authorities.
🔍 Key Areas of Regulation
Anti-Competitive Agreements
Prohibits cartels, price-fixing, market sharing, and other anti-competitive agreements.
Abuse of Dominant Position
Firms with significant market power must not exploit or exclude competitors unfairly.
Merger Control
Pre-merger notification is required if turnover thresholds are met.
AVK reviews mergers potentially limiting competition.
Unfair Competition
Addressed alongside competition law, ensuring fair business practices.
⚖️ Sanctions and Enforcement
Fines up to 10% of the annual turnover of the infringing company.
Orders to cease unlawful conduct and commitments to restore competition.
Leniency programs available for cartel participants who report infringements.
Private enforcement through civil courts is possible.
📈 Recent Developments
Increasing focus on digital markets and innovative sectors.
Strong cooperation with EU competition authorities within the European Competition Network (ECN).
Enforcement in energy, telecommunications, and pharmaceuticals sectors.
Summary
| Aspect | Slovenia |
|---|---|
| Main Law | Competition Act (ZVarK-1) |
| Authority | Agency for the Protection of Competition (AVK) |
| Merger Control | Mandatory notification and approval |
| EU Law Applicability | Full (Articles 101 & 102 TFEU) |
| Sanctions | Fines up to 10% turnover, injunctions, damages |
| Enforcement Focus | Cartels, abuse of dominance, digital economy |
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