Both companies operate RoPax based transport between mainland Spain, the Canary Islands, and the Strait. DFDS was also reviewed over a separate potential acquisition in Gibraltar. In the Canary Islands case, the CNMC identified competition risks requiring remedies.

The authority concluded that the operation could create a monopoly on the mainland–Canary Islands route and allow Baleària to replace Armas in inter-island markets. Identified risks included reduced service quality or frequency, higher prices on routes without public service obligations, and the loss of one of the two main historical competitors.

To address these concerns, Baleària committed to several measures. These include ending its joint operation with Fred. Olsen on the Huelva-Canary Islands route and avoiding similar agreements, maintaining current capacity and frequencies, investing EUR 25 million over three years in fleet improvements, aligning vessels with its sustainability standards, and strengthening inter-island competition by reopening routes such as Morro Jable-Las Palmas.

The CNMC considers these measures sufficient to resolve competition issues. The decision will be forwarded to Spain’s Minister of Economy, who may escalate it to the Council of Ministers.

The commitments will apply for three years and will be monitored by the CNMC. In contrast, the Strait of Gibraltar operation was approved without conditions after no competition risks were found.

© Shippax