UK watchdog probes $3.4 billion Suzano and Kimberly-Clark deal

Key Takeaways

• The $3.4 bn JV will combine Kimberly‑Clark’s International Family Care and Professional tissue business with Suzano’s pulp strength, spanning 22 facilities and ~9,000 employees across over 70 countries (suzano.com.br)
• The JV is structured with Suzano acquiring 51 % (for $1.734 bn) and Kimberly‑Clark retaining 49 %, with long‑term brand licensing and a call option allowing Suzano to buy the remainder after three years (suzano.com.br)
• The CMA’s official merger inquiry page shows that the case opened on 30 January 2026, with a public invitation to comment closing 20 February 2026; the Phase 1 decision is due by 28 May 2026 (gov.uk)