There is therefore no federal press law. Many of these decisions have related to pluralist representation, freedom of expression and assurance of unbiased news reportage. The final decision is approved by the Minister for Economic Affairs. However, two recent decisions in the press sector have been decided negatively by the Cartel Office utilising these thresholds. A second negative decision stopped the acquisition of PSG-Postdienst Service GmbH by Axel Springer Verlag.
Transparency is required by a number of different laws.
Consolidated company accounts must be made public. All guarantee freedom of establishment for publishers, meaning that there is no licensing. There are no limits on press circulation, nor are there distinctions between different press markets. The laws do include provisions for freedom of expression, dissemination of information, and accuracy of information. Over the years, a number of national press commissions have been set up and carried out studies on the influence of the press.