Meat prices: Conacom verifies whether there are anti-competitive behaviors

Conacom, the Paraguayan agency responsible for consumer protection and competition defense, is investigating unusual price increases in the beef market. The investigation involves looking into different cuts and products, and could lead to an administrative investigation if unlawful price fixing is found. The investigation was initiated in December following complaints from the livestock sector. Conacom is analyzing economic metrics in collaboration with economists and lawyers to determine if there is evidence of anti-competitive agreements.

“The one that is being analyzed is beef because the somewhat unusual behavior occurred in that category. Right now we are monitoring different cuts, different types of products,” he commented, adding that if confirmed, it could lead to the opening of an administrative investigation. He said that the request was made to the meat packing plants in particular, as well as to the Paraguayan Chamber of Meat (CPC) as a union that brings together companies and other members of the value chain. “It is important to mention that Conacom can open files, whether summary or preliminary actions, as is the case here, ex officio or by complaint,” he explained to 1020 AM. He added that Conacom was in charge of acting ex officio and collected the information. If there are no indications, the preliminary file will be closed, and on the other hand, if there are elements, the opening of an investigation will be ordered. Gavilán said that the work they are doing from the institution in this context ...