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Australia: ACCC investigates claims of anti-competitive activity in cattle yards

By  |  October 31, 2016

The competition watchdog is investigating claims of anti-competitive activity in the nation’s cattle yards while warning separately that further consolidation among meat processors may be blocked.

In a report into the cattle and beef industries, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) said it was concerned about a series of issues relating to the operation of the nation’s cattle yards and warned about the grading of meat at abattoirs.

“Integrity and trust in the grading system are essential, given its role in determining payments and signalling the demands of the market to many producers,” ACCC commissioner Mick Keogh said. Chairman Rod Sims said the ACCC was also concerned that some features of saleyard auctions made them susceptible to anti-competitive behaviour.

“During the course of this market study, we have heard specific allegations of cartel and other anti-competitive conduct involving saleyards, which the ACCC is now assessing separately,” Mr Sims said.

Full content: The Sidney Morning Herald

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