Turkey: Competition Authorities Investigate Fuel Price Fixing
|
|
|
|
Friday, 18 July 2008 |
The Competition watchdog in Turkey has commenced an investigation into
claims that fuel distribution companies are selling unleaded and diesel
fuel for close to the same price, which violates competition laws.
After the preliminary inspection of the five largest fuel
distribution companies in Turkey is completed, the Competition Board
will decide whether to perform a full-fledged investigation into the
issue. If the board proceeds, heavy fines could be imposed on these
companies.
The preliminary investigation by the board has been welcomed as a
positive development among consumers. However, consumer associations
also want the Energy Market Regulatory Agency (EPDK) to start a probe
into the claims of a common price violating competition rules.
The Competition Board discussed the matter in June and decided to start
an inquiry into the Turkish Oil Refineries Corporation (TÜPRAŞ), Petrol
Ofisi, Shell & Turcas, BP Petrolleri and Opet Petrolcülük. The
companies Aytemiz, Altınbaş and Bölünmez Petrolcülük were not on the
list.
According to the regulations of the Competition Board, after the
preliminary inspection is completed a report on it will be presented to
the EPDK. Then the EPDK will decide whether to initiate an
investigation or not. If it decides to do so, this process should be
completed in six months, according to regulations. If the investigation
reveals there are conditions violating competition rules then these
companies will face heavy fines.
PetrolWorld 170708
|
