Communication
The aim of the protection of market competition is primarily to create benefits for consumers and equal conditions for all entrepreneurs on the market, who, acting in accordance with the existing rules and competing on the market with the quality, price and innovation of their products and services, contribute to the overall development of the economy.
ICN Workshop on Competition Advocacy in Yerevan
A workshop on competition advocacy was organised by the International Competition Network (ICN) on 16 and 17 March 2026 in Yerevan, Armenia.
The workshop brought together competition experts from a wide range of jurisdictions. Discussions were held on key issues relating to the development and promotion of competition in the contemporary economy. It was noted that competition advocacy plays an important role in the context of rapidly evolving global conditions. It was further underlined that emerging market trends may contribute to fostering competitiveness, while market studies were identified as an important tool for informing the design and implementation of public policies.
Particular emphasis was placed on the integration of competition principles into public policies. It was highlighted that effective stakeholder engagement in public procurement procedures remains of key importance. Consideration was also given to the promotion of cooperation and further strengthening of competition policy within the public sector. Furthermore, issues relating to sustainability and digital markets were addressed. It was also noted that the development and implementation of competition advocacy initiatives may contribute to enhancing the capacity of SMEs.
The Head of the International and European Cooperation Department at the Croatian Competition Agency, Mr Sandi Valentinc, participated as moderator of the panel entitled “Strategies for Effective Stakeholder Engagement in Public Procurement Procedures”. In this context, the experience and practice of the Croatian Competition Agency in this area were presented. The panel further included representatives of competition authorities from Ireland, Spain, South Africa, Malaysia and Armenia.
In addition to the ICN workshop, a seminar organised by the OECD-GVH Regional Centre for Competition in Budapest is being held in Yerevan from 18 to 20 March 2026, under the title “Tools for Competition Authorities to Promote Growth and Well-being.”
