The UK Competition and Markets Authority’s Vertical Agreement Proposals – Still Anchored to the EU?

Despite the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, the EU Vertical Agreement Block Exemption Regulation (retained VABER) continues to offer a safe harbor with respect to potentially anti-competitive vertical or supply agreements with an effect on trade within the UK. In this Alert, Steptoe’s EU Competition Team analyses the UK Competition and Market Authority’s recently issued consultation on its proposals for a UK Vertical Agreements Block Exemption Order that will replace the retained VABER. Any interested party can respond to the consultation by July 22, 2021. Our Alert highlights some of the intricacies concerning the proposed changes to UK competition law surrounding vertical agreements, and how businesses can best operate in this new environment. To read our full analysis click here.