Accusations of cartels and price-fixing – the words alone are enough to strike fear into the legal and sales departments of any company.
With unannounced inspections by competition authorities, it can all add up to a harrowing and costly time for the companies involved, especially if they are found guilty of the charge.
In the European Union this currently represents a fine of up to 10% of a company’s earnings.
Within the EU, the competition laws are clearly defined, and the European Commission is active in pursuing allegations of cartels, and could be described as having a zero tolerance.
However, on a countrywide basis within the EU itself there are wide discrepancies between competition laws and how they are enforced.
In the industrial minerals industry and end markets there have been several high profile cases in Europe over last few years involving cement,...