# Distortion of competition

*Last updated: 2026-09-06*

> Distortion of competition denotes the violation of fair competitive conditions through measures or structures that systematically favour or disadvantage particular market participants.

Distortion of competition denotes the violation of fair competitive conditions through measures or structures that systematically favour or disadvantage particular market participants. Competition authorities scrutinise these practices closely in the transport sector: for example, when a state-owned railway operator receives preferential network access over private freight forwarders, when carriers collude on rates, or when dominant terminal operators restrict competitors' access. Unlike broader market distortions, competitive distortions directly target operator behaviour or protectionist barriers.

**Source:** [https://ec.europa.eu/competition-policy/glossary/distortion-competition_en.html](https://ec.europa.eu/competition-policy/glossary/distortion-competition_en.html)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Distortion of competition |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 73 |
| Last updated | 2026-09-06 |
| Source | https://ec.europa.eu/competition-policy/glossary/distortion-competition_en.html |

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