NMa combats cartel-formation with motion picture
Arnhem, February 4, 2008

The Netherlands Competition Authority (Nederlandse Mededingingsautoriteit – NMa) is about to introduce a new form of warfare in the battle against cartel-formation… A Corporate Flick. Four Corners was commissioned with developing a screenplay and producing the film. The aim of this film is to persuade people who witness cartel-formation to report to the NMa.

By means of a reconstruction, the film shows the importance of reporting these foul, illegal practices. Whoever is the first to report to the NMa, will be granted immunity. In effect, it is of tremendous importance for a witness to report first, before someone else, or even a colleague does so.

Tips
Tips or signals from corporations are of vital importance for the effectiveness of the NMa. They may lead to the start of new investigations, or be of use in running investigations. The NMa could eventually fine the companies involved, or charge them a non-compliance penalty.

NMa
The NMa advances competition in the Netherlands by tracking down and fighting cartel-deals, such as arrangements regarding the price of a product, or the distribution of clients. Apart from that, the NMa contests abuse of an economic position of power. Cartel-arrangements and the abuse economical monopolies usually lead to higher fees or limited choice for consumers. Finally, the NMa audits mergers and acquisitions with regard to the establishment or intensifying of economical monopolies