Interim boite interim eu are a powerful antitrust tool, but they can also cause serious disruption to business operations based on a relatively cursory investigation. For this reason, they should be used sparingly and only when necessary, but they are a very useful tool for addressing urgent situations such as those that have arisen in the battery market.

A growing chorus is calling for the Commission to use this tool more often in fast-moving technology markets, where delays can have far-reaching effects in the marketplace. However, the EU’s procedural steps and lengthy timelines limit how often interim measures are used by the Commission.

In 2024, the average duration of an interim management assignment was 11.5 months, with significant variation by market. Corporates accounted for the largest share of interim opportunities at 31%, followed by SMEs and family or owner managed companies (29% each).

Despite their power, interim measures have largely fallen into disuse in the EU, owing to the restrictive wording of Article 8 of Regulation 1/2003 and the exacting standards of the EU Courts. A new trend, however, is emerging that could revive their use.

“Interim Solutions in Romania: Addressing Business Needs in a Changing Landscape

The Court has indicated an interim measure in a case concerning the application of the European Convention on Human Rights by persons subject to disciplinary measures (Rule 39 of the Rules of Procedure). The Court enjoins the Belgian State to comply with the decisions of the Brussels French-language labour court to house the applicant in a reception centre or, if necessary, in a hotel and to provide him with accommodation and material assistance to meet his basic needs.