Brussels, 10/06/2008 (Agence Europe) - On Monday 9 June, the European Commission opened an in-depth investigation into the planned acquisition of the French company Mailleux by the Swedish company Ålö. Both companies produce equipment for agricultural tractors. The Commission's initial market investigation found that the proposed acquisition raises serious doubts as to its compatibility with the Single Market as regards front loaders for tractors, where the parties' activities overlap significantly. Front loaders are devices which can be attached to the front end of tractors to handle or lift various kinds of materials. The decision to open an in-depth inquiry does not prejudge the final result of the investigation. The Commission now has 90 working days, until 15th October 2008, to take a final decision on whether the concentration would significantly impede effective competition within the European Economic Area (EEA) or a substantial part of it. Commenting on the opening of this inquiry, Competition Commissioner Neelie Kroes said: “We must ensure that farmers, and ultimately all consumers of farm products, are not harmed by higher prices and less choice as a result of the proposed merger”. (O.L./transl.jl)