CCI's latest merger overhaul may push deal timelines, increase filings

The amendments bring welcome changes like shorter assessment timelines and CCI hearings, but experts believe they may hinder ongoing deals and increase workload

The latest combination regulations have brought within their purview a deal value threshold (DVT) and criteria for substantial business operations in India in what experts have termed the “single largest overhaul of the Indian merger control regime”.

Combination regulations refer to merger or amalgamation among enterprises, or acquisition of control, shares, voting rights or assets of one enterprise by another.
 

The amendments usher in welcome changes for the industry, including shorter timelines for assessment of combinations and availability of hearings before the Competition Commission of India (CCI) on request during the merger review process. However, many experts believe