On 1 November 2026, a new merger control regime will come into force in Jersey. A summary of the current and new regimes are set out below. If are considering a merger and have any questions, please contact us at competition@jcra.je or 01534 514990.
Until 31 October 2026
Under the 2010 Merger Order, a merger must be approved by the JCRA before completion if it meets any of the following thresholds:
- Horizontal mergers: the parties are active in the same market, and the merger would result in, or increase, a share of supply or purchase of 25% or more.
- Vertical mergers: one party has a share of supply or purchase of 25% or more, and the other party operates upstream or downstream of that supply.
- Conglomerate mergers: one party has a share of supply or purchase of 40% or more, and there is no horizontal or vertical relationship.
For more information, see Guideline 8 - Mergers and Acquisitions.
From 1 November 2026 onwards
Under the 2026 Merger Order, a merger must be approved by the Authority prior to completion if based on the most recent financial year:
· the aggregate turnover of the parties is £5 million or more; and
· the individual turnover of each of the parties is £2 million or more.
Mergers that do not meet these turnover thresholds may still be called in by the JCRA. This means the JCRA may require the parties to submit an application where it considers that the merger may substantially lessen competition in a market in Jersey. The JCRA must exercise this power within specified time limits after becoming aware of the transaction or its implementation.
The 2026 Merger Order also excludes certain transactions from merger control, including some insolvency-related acquisitions, internal restructurings, financial holding company transactions, and transfers through inheritance or succession.
An updated guideline, reflecting the new merger control regime will be published in due course.
