Brussels, 19/02/2009 (Agence Europe) - On Wednesday 18 February, the European Commission confirmed that on 17 February 2009, Commission officials had carried out unannounced inspections at the premises of producers of compressors, used mainly for domestic refrigeration and freezers. Inspections took place in several member states.
In a press statement, the Commission explained that it has reason to believe that the companies concerned may have violated EC Treaty rules on restrictive business practices. Article 81 prohibits practices such as price fixing and customer allocation.
Surprise inspections are a preliminary step in investigations into suspected cartels. The fact that the Commission carries out such inspections does not mean that the companies are guilty of anti-competitive behaviour; nor does it prejudge the outcome of the investigation itself. The Commission respects the rights of defence, in particular the right of companies to be heard in antitrust proceedings. (L.C./transl.rh)