Motreanu aims to spotlight the persistent problem of territorial supply constraints within the EU single market, arguing that these barriers fragment the market, limit consumer choice, and inflate prices, especially in the agri-food sector. His query is likely to stir reactions from manufacturers who impose such restrictions, retailers squeezed by limited cross-border trade, consumers facing higher costs and reduced options, and EU competition authorities grappling with enforcement.
This question was posed by Dan-Ştefan Motreanu, member of the European Parliament and affiliated with the PPE group, directly to the European Commission. It seeks clarity on the Commission’s planned responses to remove these internal market obstacles.
The Commission, via Executive Vice-President Séjourné, responded by reaffirming the potential of competition law to target unjustified territorial barriers when imposed by dominant firms or through anticompetitive agreements. They cited past enforcement actions with significant fines against companies like AB InBev and Mondelēz. However, for many other scenarios outside existing law’s scope, the Commission is exploring new tools as outlined in its Single Market Strategy, potentially including specific legislation, subject to thorough impact assessments and consultations.
Motreanu’s intervention points to a policy direction prioritizing stronger regulation to enforce and possibly extend the scope beyond current competition law. It reflects a push to reduce market segmentation by addressing both overt and subtle supply constraints, balancing firm autonomy with the EU’s integration goals.
Impact-wise, manufacturers may face increased compliance burdens and legal risks, whereas retailers could gain more freedom in cross-border operations. Consumers stand to benefit from lower prices and broader choices. National competition authorities might see an expanded mandate. Overall, Motreanu's inquiry signals potential for both market liberalization and stronger regulatory oversight.
The Commission is expected to deliver concrete policy steps by end-2026, with formal impact assessments and stakeholder consultations shaping future initiatives. This response timeline will be a key indicator of the EU’s commitment to deepening single market freedoms and addressing long-standing territorial constraints.