This Week in Arts & Culture — Brussels (#29, 2026)
Commission objects to UPM-Sappi joint venture; upcoming General Affairs Council meeting.
August 24, 2026 to August 30, 2026
Commission objects to UPM-Sappi joint venture; upcoming General Affairs Council meeting.
📋 In This Week's Newsletter
• 🇪🇺 European Commission
• 🤝 EU Council
• 📚 What We're Reading This Week
European Commission
Commission Sends Statement of Objections on UPM-Sappi Joint Venture in Communication Paper Markets
On 25 August 2026, the European Commission notified UPM-Kymmene Corporation and Sappi Limited of its preliminary concerns regarding their proposed joint venture in the communication paper sector. The Commission found that combining UPM’s and Sappi’s European communication paper businesses may restrict competition, particularly in magazine paper and coated wood free paper markets within the EEA, the UK, and Switzerland. The in-depth investigation, opened on 28 April 2026, evaluated the possibility that the joint venture would acquire market power, potentially resulting in higher prices and reduced quality for customers. Internal documents and feedback from market participants were reviewed as part of the process. The Commission stated it remains unconvinced that potential benefits, such as cost savings or environmental improvements, would sufficiently offset these risks. UPM and Sappi have the opportunity to respond, access the case file, and request an oral hearing. The final decision deadline is 11 November 2026. The case is registered under M.12270.
EU Council
General Affairs Council Schedules Informal Meeting for Early September
The General Affairs Council will hold an informal meeting on 3 September 2026.
What We're Reading This Week
- Study: Istanbul residents shun culture and arts with high ticket prices main barrier: High ticket prices are discouraging Istanbul residents from attending cultural and artistic events, according to a new study.
