Regulators from different continents debate “innovation and competition” in the digital world

On the occasion of Cullen International’s 40th anniversary conference in Brussels on 23 June 2026, representatives from authorities of Belgium, Brazil, Colombia, the EU, and Japan discussed how competition policy in communications and digital markets can support innovation and consumer welfare. The panel addressed the theme from different angles, from merger control to the interplay between ex ante and ex post frameworks to address competition concerns in digital sectors.

Regulators from different continents debate “innovation and competition” in the digital world

On the occasion of Cullen International’s 40th anniversary conference in Brussels on 23 June 2026, representatives from authorities of Belgium, Brazil, Colombia, the EU, and Japan discussed how competition policy in communications and digital markets can support innovation and consumer welfare. The panel addressed the theme from different angles, from merger control to the interplay between ex ante and ex post frameworks to address competition concerns in digital sectors.

Nexfibre/Substantial merger (pending case)

Update: The UK Competition and Markets Authority referred Nexfibre’s proposed £2bn (€2.3bn) acquisition of rival fibre network operator Substantial (Netomnia) for an in-depth phase II merger control investigation. Nexfibre is a joint venture between InfraVia Capital Partners, Liberty Global and Telefónica, the latter two also co-owning Virgin Media O2. The final decision on the case is due by 15 December 2026.

Stakeholders highlight key challenges ahead in EU AI Act implementation

On the occasion of its 40th anniversary conference in Brussels on 23 June 2026, Cullen International hosted a panel discussion on the EU AI Act, addressing topics such as the role of standards and secondary legislation to help implement this regulation.

JD.com/Ceconomy foreign subsidies (pending case)

The European Commission launched an in-depth foreign subsidies investigation into the proposed acquisition of Germany-based consumer electronics retailer Ceconomy by China-based e-commerce group JD.com. The Commission has until 2 October 2026 to decide on the case.

Explainer: EU General Block Exemption Regulation (GBER)

The GBER plays an important role in the EU state aid system by allowing member states to grant aid more swiftly, without prior notification to the Commission for approval, provided the measure meets specific conditions that limit distortions of competition. This report outlines the GBER’s provisions on broadband state aid and highlights proposed changes on which the Commission is consulting until 23 April 2026.