20/11/2018 (Agence Europe) – On Tuesday 20 November, the European Commission conditionally approved the acquisition of Shire plc (Shire) by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (Takeda). The two pharmaceutical companies operating in the European Economic Area market notified the institution of their proposed transaction on 28 September. During their investigation, they focused on biological treatments for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), with Takeda now offering a type of 'anti-integrins’ treatment, while Shire is only just developing one. The Commission was therefore concerned that the transaction, as initially envisaged, could have the effect of reducing competition in this sector. To address these concerns, Takeda offered to transfer the product currently developed by Shire, as well as the rights attached to it. Subject to full compliance with these commitments, which are considered satisfactory, the Commission has given the green light to the acquisition. (LT)