Case:

In May 2003, the ACCC instituted proceedings in the Australian Federal Court against Atlantic salmon farming business Tassal Limited and the Tasmanian Salmonid Growers Association, for alleged contravention of section 45 of the Trade Practices Act dealing with anti-competitive arrangements.

Keywords:

Anti-competitive agreements, court enforceable undertaking, aquaculture

Reference:

Undertaking date 19th August 2003.

Industry:

Aquaculture

Relevant laws:

Sections 45(2)(a)(ii) and 45(2)(b)(ii) of the Trade Practices Act 1974

Summary:

In proceeding No. T2 of 2003 in the Federal Court of Australia, Tasmania District Registry, Tassal Limited admitted that it made and gave effect to an arrangement or understanding that would be likely to have the effect of controlling or maintaining the price of atlantic salmon, in that in February 2002 it made an arrangement with its competitors to limit the supply of atlantic salmon by grading out stock that would otherwise reach the market, and subsequently graded out 70 tonnes in partial fulfilment of its obligation. Pursuant to this undertaking Tassal will implement a Trade Practices training program for relevant staff.

For the latest information on ACCC administrative decisions, check out the public registers section of the ACCC¡¦s new website at www.accc.gov.au