Press Release: Mergers: Commission opens in-depth investigation into proposed acquisition of Cumerio by Norddeutsche Affinerie AG (NA)

The European Commission has opened an in-depth investigation under the EU Merger Regulation into the planned acquisition of Cumerio of Belgium by Norddeutsche Affinerie AG (NA) of Germany. The Commission’s preliminary market investigation found that the proposed transaction raises serious doubts as to its compatibility with the Single Market and the European Economic Area (EEA) agreement. The Commission now has 90 working days (until 5 February 2008) to decide whether the takeover would significantly impede effective competition within the EEA or a significant part of it. A decision to open an in-depth investigation does not prejudge the final result of the procedure.