The 24th Annual Conference of the International Competition Network (ICN) took place from May 7 to 9, 2025, in Edinburgh, Scotland, hosted by the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). This significant event saw participation from representatives of over 90 jurisdictions, including stakeholders from the business community, legal and economic professionals, international organizations, and academics.

The ICN serves as the most important global network of competition authorities, providing a unique platform for these agencies to exchange ideas and collaborate on solutions. With more than 140 competition agencies as members, the ICN plays a crucial role in addressing competition law issues worldwide.

During the conference, participants engaged in plenary sessions and breakout discussions organized by ICN working groups. Special focus was given to the role of competition in enhancing productivity, innovation, and economic growth, alongside a global update on competition in digital markets. Notable keynote speakers included Justin Madders MP, the UK’s Minister for Employment Rights, Andrew Ferguson, Chairman of the US Federal Trade Commission, Teresa Ribera, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission, and Gail Slater, Assistant Attorney General for the Antitrust Division of the US Department of Justice.

Andreas Mundt, President of the Bundeskartellamt, officially handed over the chair of the ICN Steering Group to Andrea Marván, President of the Mexican competition authority. Mundt, who has been instrumental in the ICN's development since its inception, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the organization and highlighted its growth and influence in the field of competition law.

On May 6, the CMA also hosted the ICN Technologist Forum, a closed event aimed at agency technologists to discuss key technology themes affecting competition agencies globally, particularly in the realms of artificial intelligence and digital markets.

Looking ahead, the 2026 ICN Annual Conference is set to be hosted by the Philippine Competition Commission, with further details available on the conference website and recordings of the sessions to be shared on the CMA’s YouTube channel.