Today’s news / Denmark revises stance on EU competition rules
Finance Minister Nicolai Wammen (S) wants to look at the EU's competition rules without prejudice, writes Politiken. (Archive photo). Photo: Emil Nicolai Helms/Ritzau Scanpix

Denmark revises stance on EU competition rules

Denmark signals a shift in approach to EU competition rules, according to Iben Tybjærg Schacke-Barfoed of Tænketanken Europa. Finance Minister Nicolai Wammen hinted at the potential relaxation of these rules to foster competitive opportunities for European firms globally. Historically, Denmark has defended the EU’s strict competition laws, considered fundamental to the internal market, which ensure free competition by requiring EU approval for major corporate mergers. Wammen criticized current rules for inhibiting growth and allowing European companies to fall behind their American and Chinese counterparts. The specifics of the changes were not detailed, but the development is deemed noteworthy by Schacke-Barfoed, who emphasizes the relevance for Denmark and the risk of disproportionately benefiting large firms in bigger states. Post-pandemic, Europe’s competitiveness has declined, and Schacke-Barfoed envisions EU’s competitiveness as a key political focus for the next five years. Wammen’s comments echo the broader mood in Europe, showing Denmark’s evolving viewpoint.