Malta extends investigation of Vodafone-Melita merger

Maltese operator Go applauded a decision taken by the Office for Competition within the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA) to start a more thorough phase 2 investigation concerning the proposed takeover of Melita by Vodafone Malta. Vodafone Malta said it will continue to assist and cooperate fully with the Office for Competition in the investigation process.

The office initiates such an investigation when it considers that the proposed market concentration raises serious concerns of significant impediment to effective competition in the market, Go said in a press release. Typically during Phase 2 investigations, the Office will conduct detailed research and analysis on issues such as the possible increase in prices that the acquisition may cause and possible anti-competitive behaviour that may result from the creation or strengthening of dominance in the market.

Go believes the decision should mean that the proposed acquisition will be given proper evaluation and that adequate safeguards may be provided to ensure the sector remains viable and that consumers continue to enjoy real choice.