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Several Belgian pharmaceutical companies investigated for restrictive practices

Xinhua, November 22, 2016 Adjust font size:

The Investigation and Prosecution Service of the Belgian Competition Authority (BCA) confirmed the BCA was currently conducting inspections of several companies active in the wholesale distribution of pharmaceutical products to pharmacies.

According to a statement published Monday by BCA, the BCA has information about possible participation in anti-competitive agreements and/or practices between wholesalers active in Belgium relating to the services which they provide to pharmaceutical laboratories on the one hand and to pharmacies on the other.

These inspections are a preliminary step in the investigation of restrictive practices. The duration of the investigation will depend on several factors, including the degree of complexity of the case, cooperation with the BCA, and the exercise of the rights of defense.

The BCA pursues anti-competitive practices, such as cartels and abuses of a dominant position, and reviews the main merger operations. The BCA cooperates with the other competition authorities of European Union member states and the European Commission within the European Competition Network. Endit