Monopolies and "concentration groups" under Israeli law are subject to strict rules and regulations. An abuse of market power by a monopolist is a criminal offence in Israel, as well as a tort, which may give rise to civil claims (including class actions) seeking substantial damages, injunctions and other civil remedies. Even in the absence of abusive conduct, the Israeli competition and antitrust authorities may declare an entity as being a monopoly which will subject the monopolist to certain limitations in the way it may carry on its business, including limitations specifically tailor-made by the authorities.
We have substantial experience acting for international and local companies, across a wide range of industries, who are alleged to be monopolists and whose market conduct is the subject of investigation or other legal proceedings. We have an excellent understanding of the legal and economic issues determining market definition and relevant product markets in which our clients operate.
Our expertise includes: acting for clients the subject of investigation by the competition and antitrust authorities on the grounds of alleged abuse of a dominant position or alleged market share, challenging monopoly declarations made by the competition and antitrust authorities, defending clients in individual or class actions, as well as in criminal proceedings, whose business practices are alleged to constitute an abuse of a dominant position and advising on whether business practices carry the risk of being considered market abuse.
We also have extensive experience acting for clients challenging business practices carried out by monopolies and concentration groups in Israel.