Vienna, 21 February 2025 – Competition authorities from across Europe convened in Vienna this week for a series of high-profile discussions on artificial intelligence (AI) and enforcement challenges. Hosted within the framework of the European Competition Agencies (ECA), the meetings took place from 19 to 21 February, bringing together experts and heads of competition authorities from EU Member States, the European Commission, the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries, and the United Kingdom.
The event kicked off on 19 February with an AI-focused workshop that marked the first of its kind within the ECA. More than 80 experts attended, exploring the evolving role of AI in competition enforcement. Following an opening address by Natalie Harsdorf, Director General of the Austrian Federal Competition Authority (AFCA), representatives from various competition authorities shared insights on the current and potential future use of AI tools. Discussions centered on the benefits AI could bring to enforcement processes and the challenges associated with its adoption.
Over the following days, the heads of competition authorities from 30 countries engaged in intensive discussions on pressing enforcement issues. The agenda included merger control, market abuse, and sector inquiries, with an emphasis on cross-border cases and increasing instances of one-sided conduct in markets. Delegates agreed on the importance of international cooperation in tackling these challenges, highlighting the need for continued dialogue on enforcement priorities.
A key moment in the event was the press conference held on 20 February at the House of the European Union in Vienna. AFCA Director General Natalie Harsdorf and Olivier Guersent, European Commission Director-General for Competition, addressed the media on the significance of competition enforcement in fostering innovation, economic growth, and a fair market environment.
“In times like these, it is more important than ever that Europe comes together and that we cooperate closely across borders to tackle all of the current challenges. To promote competitiveness and ensure a level playing field, it is vital that we strengthen European cooperation – for the sake of competitiveness, fairness, and a common future,“ stated Harsdorf.
Guersent echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the role of competition policy in sustaining a strong European economy. “European competition policy supports an innovative, decarbonised and secure European economy. It supports our competitiveness in a global context. Our enforcement is based on facts and is grounded in the rule of law. And in today’s interconnected economy, effective enforcement requires cooperation across borders: this is why the work of national competition authorities is so important and should always be safeguarded.”
The Vienna meetings underscored the shared commitment of European competition authorities to effective enforcement and cross-border cooperation. With AI poised to become an increasingly integral tool in competition oversight, the discussions in Vienna have set the stage for further innovation and collaboration in regulatory practices.
