Article 26

Hearing of the parties and of third persons 1. Before taking decisions as provided for in Articles 11, 12 (3), second subparagraph, and 12 (4), 13 (3), 14 (2) and (3), 22 and 23, the Commission shall give the undertakings or associations of undertakings concerned the opportunity of being heard on the matters to which the Commission has taken objection. 2. If the Commission or the competent authorities of the Member States consider it necessary, they may also hear other natural or legal persons. Applications to be heard on the part of such persons where they show a sufficient interest shall be granted. 3. Where the Commission intends to give negative clearance pursuant to Article 5 or Article 6, it shall publish a summary of the relevant agreement, decision or concerted practice and invite all interested third parties to submit their observations within a time limit which it shall fix being not less than one month. Publication shall have regard to the legitimate interest of undertakings in the protection of their business secrets.

← art_25__para · All articles · art_26__para →

Source: EUR-Lex (Cellar) · retrieved 2026-10-21 · Text as adopted (Official Journal); later amendments are not incorporated in this text.