Schering-Plough applies for clearance to merge with Merck

The Commerce Commission has received an application from Schering-Plough Corporation seeking clearance in relation to the proposed merger between Schering-Plough Corporation and Merck & Co., Inc.

Schering-Plough Corporation operates in New Zealand through its subsidiary, Schering-Plough Animal Health Limited, which supplies a number of human health and animal health products.

Merck supplies a number of human health products in New Zealand through its subsidiary, Merck Sharp & Dohme (New Zealand) Limited. It also supplies various animal health products in New Zealand through its joint venture with Sanofi-Aventis Limited in Merial New Zealand Limited.

In considering the application, the Commission’s role is to determine whether the acquisition has the effect of substantially lessening competition in a market.

A public version of the application will shortly be available on the Commission’s website www.comcom.govt.nz under Public Registers. A statement of preliminary issues, outlining the Commission’s view on the competition issues that could arise if the proposed merger were to proceed, will also be released shortly.