The EU Cartel Settlement Procedure: Latest Developments

Following its introduction in 2008, the settlement procedure has become a well-oiled instrument with already 14 decisions adopted by the Commission.

The pace has accelerated over the period 2013–2014, with more than half of all decisions adopted and almost EUR 3 billion collected in fines.

The procedure has proven to achieve procedural efficiencies, generally reducing the duration of the procedure by 2 years.

Five cases have so far been pursued as ‘hybrid’ cases and one case is currently being challenged before the European Courts.