The article analyzes the term "competition" and perception of this notion given by various prominent economists. The evolution of understanding of the concept of "competitive market" has been considered. The article identifies the differences between the activities of anti-monopoly committees in countries such as the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Japan, Germany, Spain, and France. Particular attention was paid to the development of the legislative framework in these countries. The comparative characteristics of the responsibility areas of the antitrust agencies in the European Union and the United States of America has been provided. The study established that antitrust policy in the European Union is more liberal
