Unannounced searches in September 2025 prompted regulators to probe whether Sanofi used comparative advertising to undermine Fluad in France and Germany.
The European Commission has opened an antitrust investigation into whether Sanofi violated competition rules during the promotional campaign for the influenza vaccine.
According to the regulator’s statement, there are indications that Sanofi may have conducted an informational campaign in favor of the Efluelda vaccine, while discrediting the competing Fluad product from CSL Seqirus, mainly in the French and German markets.
In both countries, Sanofi holds a dominant market position, the Commission noted.
“Sanofi is confident that it has acted and continues to act in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulatory norms, including competition law,”
– A company spokesperson
“The company takes these matters seriously and is fully cooperating with the European Commission throughout the process.”
– A company spokesperson
The investigation was opened after earlier, unannounced searches of Sanofi offices conducted in September 2025, regulators say.
The European Commission emphasizes that the case is being considered in the context of compliance with European competition law and the transparency of advertising campaigns in the pharmaceutical sector.
The investigation is ongoing, and the regulator may take further steps under European Union law.