Annual Report 2025 (available in German)
Using the theme of “Continuity and dynamism”, the head of the Authority presented its activities to safeguard fair competition conditions in Austria and gave an overview of the key procedures, market inquiries and steps to advance the Authority’s organisational and digital skills.
“Competition needs continuity, as well as reliable rules that are consistently enforced. At the same time, digitalisation, artificial intelligence and economic upheaval demand a form of competition oversight that remains flexible and dynamic. These two requirements are what determine the way we work,” stressed Director General Natalie Harsdorf.
“Fair and free competition is one of the cornerstones for the competitiveness of our country. It creates fair opportunities for businesses, protects consumers and boosts confidence in Austria as a business location. With its consistent enforcement of the law and observation of the market, the Federal Competition Authority contributes significantly to achieving this aim. The Annual Report 2025 is impressive proof of this,” added Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer, Federal Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism.
Consistent enforcement of competition law – from waste management to filling stations
In 2025, the AFCA initiated 19 proceedings at the Cartel Court. At the AFCA’s request, the Cartel Court imposed fines totalling EUR 81.74 million. Dawn raids were carried out at 15 business locations, with investigations involving such sectors as the construction and waste management industries, energy, food, gambling, real estate and filling stations.
As part of its merger control activities, the AFCA examined 374 national and 330 European mergers, with two cases requiring an in-depth review by the Cartel Court. In the gambling market, conditions to protect competition were agreed before legal proceedings had to be initiated.
Furthermore, the AFCA looked into 229 complaints relating to misleading business practices.
Digital skill sets broadened and new investigation approaches introduced
The advancing digitalisation of the markets has also left its mark on the Authority, which is constantly adapting and evolving. The newly created Market and Cartel Screening Unit widened the AFCA’s scope to proactively uncover any practices that restrict or distort competition The Forensics, Data Analysis and AI Department now also has more staff resources and has been developing its use of digital investigation and analysis tools.
Advice and prevention
In addition to enforcing competition law, the AFCA also stepped up its information, advice and prevention efforts. The Authority advised businesses on how to apply cartel law, carried out pre-notification procedures in merger control, and handled a large number of enquiries related to the notification of mergers.
In the advocacy area, the AFCA held talks, organised expert events and submitted comments on draft laws. This expertise was needed, for example, in the context of the Electricity Industry Act, the Public Procurement Act 2026, the European Media Freedom Act Accompanying Act and the Anti-Deceptive Packaging Act.
International cooperation further strengthened
International networking continued to be an important focus area in 2025. Director General Natalie Harsdorf was appointed Chair of the OECD Working Party on Competition and Regulation, and she was also re-elected to the DMA High Level Group as a representative. Additionally, the AFCA was actively involved in European and international networks such as the OECD’s European Competition Network and the International Competition Network.
Staff and organisation
As at the end of 2025, the AFCA employed a staff of 68. In the reporting year, several organisational changes were implemented, including the appointment of the Head of the Staff Unit, the setting up of the Market and Cartel Screening Unit, and the further advancement of digital skill sets within the Authority.
AFCA Annual Report 2025
The Annual Report gives a comprehensive overview of AFCA’s activities in 2025, of its procedures, market inquiries, international activities and organisational advancements. The Report is presented to the Members of Parliament every year.