Communication
The aim of the protection of market competition is primarily to create benefits for consumers and equal conditions for all entrepreneurs on the market, who, acting in accordance with the existing rules and competing on the market with the quality, price and innovation of their products and services, contribute to the overall development of the economy.
CCA fines ELIZABETA PROMET from Solin EUR 10,000 for imposition of unfair trading practices
The Croatian Competition Agency (CCA) has fined ELIZABETA PROMET d.o.o., Solin, EUR 10,000 for a serious infringement of the Act on the Prohibition of Unfair Trading Practices in the Business-to-Business Food Supply Chain (UTPs Act).
Following the administrative proceedings, the CCA found that ELIZABETA PROMET had used its significant bargaining power as a buyer by conducting business with two suppliers without written contracts.
In determining the EUR 10,000 fine, the CCA took into account the gravity, scope, duration and consequences of the infringement for the suppliers, as well as several mitigating circumstances.
The purpose of a fine imposed under the UTPs Act is not merely to fine the offender for its unlawful conduct, but also to establish, ensure and protect fair trading practices, as such practices are essential for protecting all participants in the agricultural and food supply chain. The fine is also intended to deter the offender from further unlawful conduct and to raise awareness of the need to fully align its business practices with its suppliers over whom it has significant bargaining power with the provisions of the UTPs Act. At the same time, the fine is intended to deter all other market participants subject to the UTPs Act from infringing its provisions.
Accordingly, the CCA considers that the fine imposed in these proceedings is appropriate to achieve the purpose and objectives of the fine.
The full text of the decision, excluding business secrets, is available on the CCA’s website.