Mar. 27 at 12:48 PM
The U.K.’s Competition and Markets Authority has launched a Phase 1 investigation into the proposed
$3.4B joint venture between Brazilian pulp producer Suzano and consumer goods company Kimberly-Clark, marking the first step in assessing potential competition concerns.
The review will examine whether the partnership could reduce competition in relevant markets, particularly in tissue and paper-based consumer products, where both companies have significant exposure. Phase 1 inquiries typically determine whether a deal can proceed as planned or requires a more in-depth Phase 2 investigation.
The regulator announced the probe Friday and set a May 28 deadline to issue its initial decision, which could clear the deal, impose remedies, or escalate scrutiny.
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