AGCM

The Authority intends to take a closer look at the competitive dynamics of the relevant markets, also taking into account any technological innovations and the recent changes in the legislation

The Italian Competition Authority has launched a sector inquiry into the hearing aid markets in Italy. These devices respond to widespread health needs, have a major impact on people's daily lives and can represent a significant item of expenditure for both individual consumers and the National Health System.

In the Authority's view, the current market conditions do not seem to guarantee full price transparency for products and related services. The inquiry is aimed at investigating the competitive dynamics of the relevant markets, also taking into account the technological innovations introduced and the recent changes in the relevant legislation.

At once, the Authority has also launched a public consultation (Consultation text) on the issues specified in the decision to open the sector inquiry. The parties concerned can send their contributions to the e-mail address IC55@agcm.it within the next 30 days.

Rome, 25 September 2023