Japan Fair Trade Commission conducts on-site inspections of four major beer manufacturers
Published
On the 7th, the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) conducted on-site inspections of four major domestic beer manufacturers on suspicion of violating the Antimonopoly Act, following allegations that they had formed a cartel regarding the shipment prices of beer and other products.
The companies subject to this investigation are the four major domestic manufacturers: Asahi Breweries, Kirin Brewery, Sapporo Breweries, and Suntory. These companies are suspected of having coordinated shipment prices for beer, happoshu (low-malt beer), and other products in advance over many years.
The Antimonopoly Act prohibits "cartels," in which companies consult with one another to set prices or restrict sales outlets. Through these on-site inspections, the JFTC plans to seize relevant documents from each company and conduct a detailed investigation into whether there were any illegal communications in the price-setting process.
Beer is a familiar product enjoyed in many Japanese households and restaurants. The focus moving forward will be on whether fair competition in the market has been maintained and whether consumers have suffered any disadvantages as a result of this investigation.
The JFTC intends to analyze the seized materials and is considering taking legal action if facts confirming a violation are found. Each manufacturer has indicated that they will fully cooperate with the investigation.
Sources: 時事ドットコム
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