The proposed tie-up between Liberty Global and Vodafone has been approved by the European Commission, subject to the completion of concessions by Vodafone.

The joint company will operate in the Netherlands and is conditional on Vodafone divesting its consumer fixed line business in order to retain sufficient competition in the market. The divestment will entirely remove the overlap between the activities of Vodafone and Liberty Global in the markets, allowing the deal to go ahead.

Competition commissioner Margrethe Vestager commented:

“The telecoms market is of strategic importance for our digital society. The commitments offered by Vodafone ensure that Dutch consumers will continue to enjoy competitive prices and good choice.”

Brussels also rejected a request to refer the merger to the Dutch competition authority for assessment.

03/08/2016