Liberalization of gas markets in Europe

The 'gas directive' 98/30/EC, unanimously adopted by all European Union member states on June 22, 1998, has marked the start-up of deep changes in the European gas sector and of the creation of a unique gas market. Five years after its transposition, and even if the opening of markets to competition makes progress, the percentage of opening remains different from one market to the other. The next step towards a complete opening is fixed to July 1, 2007, but many obstacles have to be cleared in the meantime. (J.S.)