The European Commission announced, on Tuesday 12 October, that it had carried out unannounced inspections in locations in several Member States at the premises of companies active in the wood pulp sector.
The Commission is concerned that the inspected companies may have violated EU antitrust rules, which prohibit cartels and restrictive business practices (Article 101 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union). The Commission officials were accompanied by their counterparts from the relevant national competition authorities.
Wood pulp is a dry fibrous material made from wood, which is used to manufacture various paper products (tissues, writing paper, paperboard, etc.).
Unannounced inspections are a preliminary step in an investigation into suspected anti-competitive practices. The fact that the Commission carries out such inspections does not mean that companies are guilty of anti-competitive behaviour nor does it prejudge the outcome of the investigation itself.
The Commission fully respects the rights of defence in its antitrust proceedings, in particular the right of companies to be heard. The inspections were conducted in compliance with all coronavirus health and safety protocols to ensure the security of those involved. (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)