Updated merger thresholds, public interest and the cost of doing business in South Africa

In the latest episode of Clause & Effect, CDH’s podcast exploring the intersection of law and business, Phetha Mchunu is joined by Reece May, Director in CDH’s Competition Law practice, for an insightful discussion on the updated merger control thresholds and what they mean for businesses navigating transactions in South Africa. Merger control thresholds are often viewed as technical regulatory benchmarks, but in practice, they play a critical role in determining whether a transaction triggers regulatory scrutiny from the competition authorities and what obligations arise for merging parties. Phetha and Reece unpack what merger thresholds are, why they matter for deal planning, and the key legal and business considerations that companies, investors, and advisors should keep in mind when assessing transaction risk. The conversation explores the practical implications of notifiable mergers, common misconceptions around thresholds and regulatory approval, and the broader competition law considerations that can affect deal timelines, transaction certainty, and execution risk. Drawing on practical examples and market insight, the episode demystifies a complex topic and translates it into practical guidance for businesses operating in an increasingly sophisticated regulatory environment. Tune in to hear Phetha and Reece unpack the updated merger control thresholds and what businesses should know before signing on the dotted line. Click here to watch the videocast - https://www.cliffedekkerhofmeyr.com/en/news/media/2026/Corporate-Commercial/Updated-merger-thresholds-public-interest-and-the-cost-of-doing-business-in-South-Africa