The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) granted conditional approval for Kimberly-Clark’s acquisition of Kenvue on September 2, 2026. To maintain market competition, the regulator requires the divestment of Kenvue’s Carefree and Stayfree feminine hygiene brands in Australia.
The cash-and-stock transaction is valued at approximately $48.7 billion. Originally announced in November 2025, the deal is expected to conclude in the second half of 2026.
The merger still requires regulatory clearance from the European Union and China. Both companies currently serve as major suppliers in the period care products market.