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EU: World’s top shipping firms could dodge antitrust fines

By  |  June 3, 2014

The world’s two largest shipping container companies, Moeller-Maersk and Mediterranean Shipping Company, are reportedly working to avoid antitrust fines by the European Commission as sources say the firms are discussing a settlement with regulators to end an investigation.

The Commission announced last November that it had been investigation claims of collusion between Maersk and MSC, along with other shipping firms, to hike service prices. Three sources told reporters Tuesday that the companies are looking to settle the dispute without fines.

In addition to Switzerland-based MSC and Denmark-based Maersk, companies being investigated from South Korea, Japan and Taiwan are also looking to resolve the probe.

One source said the companies are already in preliminary settlement talks with the Commission.

The sources noted that the companies are likely looking to offer concessions to resolve competition concerns.

Full content: Reuters

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