Merger reforms and updates

We are reviewing and updating aspects of our processes and guidance, including as a result of proposed changes to New Zealand’s merger laws.

These merger reforms and updates – which are underway –  involve the introduction of new powers and amendments to the legal test for mergers, and are the most significant merger reforms since the introduction of the substantial lessening of competition test in 2001.

As a result of these reforms, there will be significant changes to our processes and timeframes.

Parties involved in mergers or acquisitions and advising parties on them should keep informed of these reforms and updates, particularly if parties wish to submit on consultation documents that we release.

We have already consulted on two documents relating to this merger reforms and updates work.

Closed consultations

Following consultation, we have published new application forms for clearance and authorisation of mergers or acquisitions, along with updated guidance on filing an application. The new application form requirements apply to applications registered from 1 July 2026.

Submissions have closed on draft new guidance on confidentiality and Official Information Act processes for our assessment of applications for clearance and authorisation under the Commerce Act. We are considering the feedback received through the consultation process. Subject to that feedback, we will finalise and publish guidance on confidentiality/OIA processes for applications.

Future consultations

We will, in the near future, publish for consultation two more documents relating to merger reforms. These will be new merger process guidelines and new merger remedies guidelines.

You will find links to consultation versions of these new guidelines on this page as they become available.

To stay informed about merger reforms and updates, subscribe to our merger reform update emails.

By subscribing, you can:

• be alerted to key dates and new information
• find out when we’re seeking feedback on key documents and processes.

Subscribe to our merger reform update emails and select 'Merger Reform' under Engagement Groups.