Cargo transportation providers could have colluded: Cofece

Mexico City. The Federal Economic Competition Commission (Cofece) found indications that federal cargo transportation providers could have colluded to avoid competing among themselves to the detriment of consumers.

For this reason, it reported in a statement, it initiated an ex officio investigation aimed at determining whether, in fact, this type of illegal agreements had been entered into.

“As one of the axes of the new competition policy, special attention has been paid to markets that affect the costs of supply chains, since the existence of illegal conduct in these sectors results in Mexican families seeing their possibilities restricted.” of purchase,” said Cofece.

He explained that cargo transportation is fundamental for the development of industry and commerce, given its influence on products and supplies reaching consumers in the best conditions.

According to data from the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications and Transportation, this type of cargo transportation has been the most used and during 2022 it moved 56.8 percent of the cargo in the country.

Furthermore, it acquires additional relevance in the context of relocation of companies to our country due to nearshoring.

From now on, Cofece has a period of up to 120 business days, which can be extended up to four times, to conclude its investigation.

If the existence of this type of illegal agreements is confirmed, those found responsible will be called to a procedure followed in the form of a trial to present their defense, so the beginning of the investigation does not constitute any prejudgment.

In accordance with the Federal Economic Competition Law, if the existence of an absolute monopolistic practice is proven, economic agents could be fined up to 10 percent of their income and natural persons who have participated in the celebration or execution of this type of Agreements between competitors could be punished with up to 10 years in prison in accordance with the Federal Penal Code.

However, it is important to mention that those who have participated or contributed to conduct of this type and provide valuable information for the investigation could become eligible for the benefits of the Immunity and Sanctions Reduction Program offered by Cofece.