The Bundeskartellamt, Germany's competition authority, has been active in 2024, imposing fines totaling approximately 19.4 million euros for illegal cartel agreements. The authority has initiated proceedings against major tech companies including Amazon, Apple, Google, Meta, and Microsoft, while also reviewing around 900 company mergers.

In addition to cartel prosecution, the Bundeskartellamt has completed a sector inquiry into electric vehicle charging stations and is nearing completion of an inquiry into the mineral oil sector. The authority has also examined around 115 applications related to public procurement cases, highlighting its commitment to maintaining competitive practices across various industries.

Andreas Mundt, President of the Bundeskartellamt, emphasized the importance of consumer protection and fair competition, particularly in the energy sector. The authority is investigating potential price abuses by district heating suppliers and examining the food sector for unlawful market power abuses by companies like Coca-Cola and EDEKA.

The Bundeskartellamt has also focused on the digital economy, concluding a significant case against Meta and continuing proceedings against other major tech firms. The authority is particularly concerned about the implications of AI on competition and is monitoring the market power of these companies closely.

In terms of merger control, the Bundeskartellamt reviewed around 900 merger projects, with ten undergoing detailed second-phase scrutiny. Notably, the takeover of University Hospital Mannheim by Heidelberg University Hospital was prohibited, underscoring the authority's vigilance in preventing market power consolidation.

Furthermore, the Bundeskartellamt has initiated multiple review proceedings against energy suppliers to ensure compliance with energy price relief measures, aiming to protect public funds. The Competition Register, a digital tool for public procurement, has been widely utilized, reflecting the authority's efforts to enhance transparency and compliance in public contracting.