CPC carries out inspections at over 30 agricultural purchase centres focused on peppers and apples
Inspectors examined price formation, procurement conditions and mechanisms used to set and change prices in several municipalities.
The Commission for Protection of Competition (CPC) carried out unscheduled inspections at more than 30 purchase centres for agricultural and horticultural products across Gevgelija, Strumica, Krivogaštani and Resen, finding initial signs of potential breaches of competition rules.
Focus on peppers and apples
Inspectors performed direct on-site checks and collected documentation with a primary emphasis on the procurement of peppers and apples. Their review targeted how purchase prices are formed, the conditions under which produce is accepted, and the mechanisms purchase centres use to determine and change prices on the market.
"In the processing of the collected data and documentation so far, certain indications have been found pointing to possible breaches of the regulations within the Commission's competence. The Commission will continue with a detailed analysis and verification of the collected data and documentation, after which, in accordance with the established facts and legal powers, appropriate measures will be taken," the CPC said.
The Commission underscored its commitment to strict enforcement of competition rules and said it will remain active in all cases where there is suspicion of violations. The stated goal is to secure equal market conditions and to protect the interests of all market participants.
Further steps will depend on the outcomes of the ongoing analyses; the CPC indicated that any measures will follow the factual findings and the legal authorities granted to the body.
Photo: press material from the event
