The Competition Authority exercises state supervision over competition, electricity, natural gas, district heating, postal services, public water supply and sewerage, as well as railways, aviation and ports, and fights against unfair trading practices in the agricultural and food supply chain. The Authority is within the area of government of the Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs.
The functions of the Competition Authority are divided between two divisions.
The Competition Division supervises competition, controls concentrations, analyses competition conditions, exercises supervision over unfair commercial practices and raises competition awareness.
The Regulatory Division regulates prices in the areas of electricity, natural gas, district heating and water. The division also exercises market supervision in the above sectors and controls the rail and postal service markets. In addition, the Competition Authority resolves disputes related to airport and port charges.
The Cooperation and Support Services Department is responsible for the functioning of support services (including international and public relations, staffing, organisation of training and events, asset and document management). In addition to the Competition Authority, the department also provides services to the Data Protection Inspectorate and the Patent Office.
The majority of staff members have a higher education in economics or law. In addition, there are employees who specialise in fields such as thermal engineering, public administration and materials technology.
Who are our staff members?
Lawyers
Lawyers exercise supervision over competition and unfair commercial practices, control concentrations and analyse the competitive situation. They also carry out supervision in areas of special regulation (eg electricity, natural gas, district heating, water), helping to ensure, among other things, the sustainability of vital services and reasonable pricing.
Analysts
Analysts analyse undertakings’ price applications or model their operations and business relationships to ensure fair prices for consumers and the efficient functioning of markets. The work involves applying knowledge of economics, engineering and mathematics, using complex software solutions and participating in both national and international projects.
Advisers/experts
Advisers’ responsibilities include the development and monitoring of the electricity and gas market, addressing issues related to the wholesale and retail electricity and gas market, conducting analyses, issuing operating licences, resolving disputes and exercising supervision. Their work also involves active participation in the activities of international organisations.
The Competition Authority supports the active and healthy lifestyle of its employees with 400 € per year.
As has become a tradition, a summer seminar was organised in 2024 too, during which topics related to agile project management were explored.
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