CCS will determine whether a merger or anticipated merger has led to or may lead to a substantial lessening of competition. Generally, CCS is unlikely to intervene in a merger situation unless:
a. the merged entity will have/has a market share of at least 40%; or
b. the merged entity will have/has a market share of between 20% and 40% AND the c. post-merger combined market share of the 3 largest firms (CR3) is at least 70%.

The phases of the assessment and timelines are as follows:

1. Confidential advice (optional): 14 days
2. Phase 1: Merging entities to submit Form M1 online (including detailed submissions, third party contact details and supporting documents) to CCS. Upon receipt of the documents, CCS will initiate a Phase 1 review which will take up to 25 working days.
3. Phase 2: In the event that there are competition concerns and an in-depth analysis of the transaction is required, CCS will proceed to a Phase 2 review which is 120 working days upon receipt of Form M2 and supporting documents.