Sanofi under antitrust probe as European Commission kicks off formal proceedings

The European Commission has launched formal antitrust proceedings against Sanofi, focusing on its flu vaccine marketing practices. Coverage does not yet specify the exact allegations, but sources indicate the probe may examine potential anti-competitive behavior in vaccine distribution or promotion. Sanofi has reportedly been invited to settle the case, suggesting an effort to resolve the matter without prolonged litigation.

Outlets including *Reuters*, *Financial Times*, and *MLex* are reporting the development, framing it as part of broader EU scrutiny of pharmaceutical pricing and market conduct. The *Wall Street Journal* and *Fierce Pharma* highlight the probe’s timing amid ongoing debates over vaccine accessibility and regulatory oversight. The *Global Competition Review* notes the case as part of a trend in EU enforcement against healthcare monopolies.

Watch for Sanofi’s formal response and whether the Commission’s probe expands to include other vaccine-related practices. If a settlement is reached, details on concessions or fines could signal broader EU priorities in pharmaceutical antitrust enforcement. Coverage may also track whether this probe influences similar investigations into other drugmakers.