Addressing competition law enforcement in informal markets is essential, as these markets often operate outside formal regulatory frameworks while playing a significant role in many economies. A better understanding of competitive dynamics in informal settings can help ensure that market participants—both formal and informal—compete on fair terms, supporting innovation, market efficiency, and inclusive economic growth.
In December 2025, the OECD Global Forum on Competition discussed competition law enforcement in informal markets. The session explored the challenges that competition authorities face when addressing competition concerns in such mixed environments, and examine potential responses, including co-operation with other regulatory and administrative bodies. It also considered experiences across jurisdictions on how to factor informality into enforcement decisions, both in fully informal sectors and in formally regulated sectors with significant informal participation. Finally, the session addressed the dual role of informal businesses in competition enforcement: as actors that may engage in anticompetitive conduct and as potential victims of such conduct, especially in contexts where formal firms exploit regulatory advantages or seek to exclude informal competitors.
This page contains all session information and materials.
