Riga, December 1, 2025 — The Latvian authority has released new guidance explaining how companies can use its pre-merger consultation process, detailing the purpose, timelines and practical steps for firms preparing to submit merger notifications.
Purpose of the consultations
According to the authority, the consultations help parties understand what information is required in a notification, reduce deficiencies in filings and clarify early whether a notification is necessary at all. The process is voluntary, informal and free of charge.
Economic Analysis and Mergers Department Director A. Kuka said the mechanism is designed to make merger review clearer and more efficient. Early engagement allows parties to prepare higher-quality submissions and enables the authority to identify essential information at an early stage, facilitating quicker assessments.
Process and format
Consultations may take place in writing, by phone or through in-person or remote meetings. Companies may request a consultation at any stage before submitting a notification. The authority emphasised that the process will be handled promptly and through open dialogue, giving businesses a clear understanding of expected content and response timelines.
Practical impact
The authority noted that the guidance aims to give merging firms confidence about the scope of required information and the procedural steps ahead of filing, improving predictability and reducing delays in the national merger review system.
