US competition law, which is popularly referred to as antitrust law, is aimed at ensuring fair competition and the prevention of monopolies that will be detrimental to business and consumers. The Sherman Antitrust Act and the Clayton Antitrust Act are the primary legislation on competition law.
Key Antitrust Laws
● Sherman Antitrust Act – Prohibits restraint of trade and conduct that has the effect of attempting to monopolize markets. It forms the foundation of most antitrust enforcement cases.
● Clayton Antitrust Act – Enhances antitrust enforcement by targeting particular practices like price discrimination, exclusive dealing arrangements, and mergers that might significantly reduce competition.
Enforcement Agencies
● Federal Trade Commission (FTC) – Charged with protecting consumers and promoting competition through the investigation and opposition to unfair trade practices and anticompetitive mergers.
● Department of Justice (DOJ) Antitrust Division – Enforces antitrust enforcement criminal and civil enforcement, monopolization prevention, and prevention of anticompetitive mergers.
New Trends in Antitrust Enforcement
● Greater focus on big business, especially in the technology industry.
● Suing large corporations on matters of monopoly in the market.
● Imposing antitrust enforcement against monopolistic practices.
Business Legal Advisory and Compliance
● Competition law compliance is indispensable to avoid legal challenges and financial damage.
● Companies need to scrutinize mergers, prices, and alliances for compliance with regulations.
● Non-compliance will have colossal financial and legal implications.
At Najla Law Firm, our experts deliver precise legal advice on U.S. competition law to assist companies in navigating intricate rules to achieve their objectives. Whether you require advice on mergers, compliance strategy, or antitrust risk assessments, our seasoned legal team is at your service.
