#52026M12247Prior Notification of Concentration: Case M.12247 – ORANGE / MASORANGE (Simplified Procedure Candidate)

The European Commission has received prior notification of a proposed concentration under EU Merger Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 involving Orange, the French multinational telecommunications operator, and MasOrange, a Spanish telecommunications joint venture. This filing marks the formal start of the EU merger review process for the transaction. The case has been designated as a candidate for the simplified procedure, meaning the Commission preliminarily considers the concentration unlikely to raise significant competition concerns. Simplified procedure cases are typically cleared faster, often within 25 working days of notification under Phase I, without a full in-depth investigation. MasOrange is the entity formed by the merger of Orange España and MásMóvil in Spain, creating one of the largest telecom operators in the Spanish market. This new notification suggests a further structural change in the ownership or control of MasOrange, potentially involving Orange consolidating or adjusting its stake. Interested third parties — including competitors, customers, and industry associations — have a limited window to submit observations to the Commission regarding the potential competitive impact of this concentration on the EU's internal market.

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