Author: Silviu Vasile (Senior Associate, Filip & Company)
The new definition of the relevant geographical market considered by the Romanian Competition Council might have a significant impact on the future acquisitions / consolidations on the Romanian pharma retail market.
At the end of 2020, the Romanian Competition Council published its perspective on the amendment of the current definition of the relevant market for the retail of pharmaceutical (prescription-based and OTC medicines) and parapharmaceutical (food supplements, medical devices, child-care products, etc.) products in specialised stores (pharmacies).
This action intended by the authority is welcome, given that the previous definition of the relevant geographical market, namely the 3km radius absorption area around the target pharmacy (an area that could be reached by foot, by bus, by considering several routes, etc.) may not accurately reflect the competition environment on the retail market. The updating of this def