Dutch mobile operators face new price-fixing probe

Nieuws Mobiel Nederland 6 DEC 2011
Dutch mobile operators face new price-fixing probe
The Dutch competition authority NMa has raided the offices of KPN, Vodafone Netherlands and T-Mobile Netherlands, alleging the companies agreed price-fixing deals for mobile telephony and internet services. KPN confirmed the news via Twitter and said it will come out with an official statement shortly. A similar case which began in 2001 finally ended in October. At the time, KPN, Vodafone NL, T-Mobile (Ben), Dutchtone and O2 Netherlands were also accused of fixing prices. The three companies still in operation in October all were fined. KPN had to pay EUR 7.93 million, T-Mobile NL 4.59 million and Vodafone NL 3.71 million. The NMa confirmed the investigation following a report from Dutch public broadcaster NOS based on information from two whistleblowers at telecom companies. The regulator declined to comment on the specific subject of the investigation. According to a statement from KPN, the NMa is looking at "concerted practice with regard to mobile telecommunications offerings on the Dutch consumer market" and the "division of independent sales channels". The operator said the NMa visited its office early on 6 December and five employees are being heard as part of the investigation. KPN said it will cooperate fully with the NMa.

Categories:

Mobiel

Companies:

KPN,  VodafoneZiggo,  T-Mobile Netherlands

Countries:

Nederland

Tags:

Regulations

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