CMA's Strategic Review of Market Remedies Underway

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is conducting a strategic review of 33 market remedies. This review, launched on 19 January 2026, aims to assess if the circumstances around these remedies have changed, potentially making them outdated or unnecessary. As part of this process, the CMA has opened a consultation, seeking feedback by 11 September 2026 to guide any revisions.

Timeline and Key Dates

The strategic review began with a consultation announcement on 19 January 2026. The CMA appointed key review members on 2 March 2026, including Kirstin Baker, Frances McLeman, Jo Armstrong, and Juliette Enser. A provisional decision was published on 12 August 2026, inviting further consultation. The timeline reflects the CMA’s standard procedural guidelines, ensuring transparency throughout the review process.

Consultation Process

Feedback is a pivotal part of the CMA's methodology. The consultation opened on 12 August 2026, providing stakeholders until 11 September 2026 to submit their views. This stage follows an earlier consultation, where responses were initially solicited by 2 March 2026.

Objectives of the Strategic Review

The overarching goal of this review is to evaluate if the market remedies remain relevant. Established under the Fair Trading Act 1973 and the Enterprise Act 2002, these remedies intend to maintain fair competition. The CMA is tasked with revisiting these every five years or when significant market changes occur. Should the review find remedies outdated, the CMA may amend or remove them to better align with current market dynamics.

Appointed Review Group

The CMA has appointed a diverse group of experts to lead this review. This includes Kirstin Baker, Frances McLeman, Jo Armstrong, and Juliette Enser. Their expertise ensures a comprehensive evaluation of each remedy’s role in promoting competition and protecting consumer interests.

Regulatory Impact

The CMA’s review could result in significant regulatory adjustments, potentially easing the burden on businesses. By identifying outdated regulatory measures, the Authority hopes to streamline requirements, making compliance less onerous for businesses.

Stay updated with regulatory developments and ensure alignment with the latest market expectations, crucial for businesses operating in regulated sectors.

Privacy and Data Handling

The CMA processes personal data in line with legal requirements. As the data controller, it ensures that all information collected during consultations is handled according to data protection laws. This includes the storage, access, and use of data to carry out statutory duties.

Understanding these procedures and compliance expectations assists businesses in adapting efficiently to potential regulatory shifts.