The European Commission announced on Monday that it is investigating several construction chemical companies suspected of price-fixing, which would violate EU competition and antitrust law.

The Commission, responsible for enforcing competition rules in the European Union, noted that companies based in Germany, France, and Spain, along with three national industry associations, allegedly agreed to raise prices of chemicals used in the production of cement, concrete, and bricks.

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According to preliminary findings, the companies coordinated their justifications for price increases of additives and chemicals in press releases issued by the industry associations in the three countries in 2021 and 2022.

The Commission pointed out that raw material prices rose at that time due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russian war against Ukraine, and other reasons.

Additives are primarily used to improve cement manufacturing processes and increase its quality, according to the Commission. Chemical additives are added to concrete and mortar to enhance their performance, extend their lifespan, and make them easier to use.

Prices of cement, concrete, and mortar directly affect construction costs.

The Commission stated that it has informed the companies and associations targeted by the investigation of the charges, and that they have the opportunity to respond to the preliminary findings and state their positions.

If the Commission finds the companies guilty, it could impose fines of up to 10% of each company's total global annual turnover. There is no deadline for concluding the investigations.

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