The European Commission has raised concerns over alleged collusion amongst six Norwegian salmon producers regarding spot sales of Norwegian farmed Atlantic salmon in the EU between 2011 and 2019.
Preliminary Concerns
On Thursday, the European Commission (EC) informed Cermaq, Grieg Seafood, Bremnes, Leroy Seafood Group, Mowi, and SalMar about its preliminary concerns. The EC asserts that these companies exchanged commercially sensitive information related to sales prices, available volumes, sales volumes, production volumes, production capacities, and other price-setting factors.
Scope of Conduct
The alleged anticompetitive conduct only pertains to sales on the spot market into the EU, rather than sales based on long-term contracts. It’s crucial to note that the issuance of a statement of objections does not predefine the outcome of the investigation. This step is simply part of the formal process within the EC’s investigations into suspected violations of EU antitrust rules.
Companies’ Reactions
Mowi contests the EC’s preliminary view, maintaining that there have been no infringements of competition rules. The company intends to review the statement and provide a written response within the standard process.
Likewise, SalMar and Leroy Seafood express strong disagreement with the EC’s preliminary assessment. Leroy Seafood emphasizes its dedication to ensuring compliance with relevant competition laws, adding that it has cooperated with the EC throughout the investigation and will continue to do so constructively. SalMar plans to thoroughly address its view in a comprehensive reply to the EC.
Defense Rights
Grieg Seafood denies any anti-trust infringements or anti-competitive behavior by itself or any of its subsidiaries. The company states its intention to exercise all of its defense rights.
Cermaq and Bremnes did not provide immediate comment or could not be reached.
