Brussels, February 16, 2026 — The European Commission (EC) closed its abuse of dominance investigation into Edwards Lifesciences following the company’s withdrawal of its Global Unilateral Pro-Innovation (Anti-Copycatting) Policy, known as UPIP.
The probe concerned potential abuse of dominance under Article 102 TFEU in relation to Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) devices. The Commission had been examining whether Edwards Lifesciences’ policy may have restricted physicians’ participation in clinical trials and other scientific or educational activities sponsored by competing TAVI manufacturers.
According to the Commission, the policy could have limited a rival’s access to important research-related services, including physician input, potentially making it more difficult for competitors to establish their products in the European Economic Area.
Dawn Raids and Investigation
In September 2023, the Commission conducted unannounced inspections at the company’s EU premises as part of the investigation. The inquiry focused on whether the company’s conduct breached EU rules prohibiting the abuse of a dominant position.
Following a thorough analysis of the evidence and the withdrawal of the UPIP, the Commission concluded that the concerns identified had been addressed. The policy is no longer applicable and has been removed from the company’s website.
The Commission clarified that the closure of the investigation does not constitute a finding that the conduct complied with EU competition rules.
Edwards Lifesciences is a US-based medical technology company specializing in cardiovascular devices. TAVI procedures enable the replacement of aortic valves via catheter, avoiding open-heart surgery.
Source: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_26_412
