Agricultural sector: criminal cartel investigation

Closed Office of Fair Trading (OFT) criminal investigation into suspected cartel activity in the supply of products for use in the agricultural sector.

Update: 3 August 2011

The OFT commenced a criminal cartel investigation under the Enterprise Act 2002 into the above matter in April 2010. Following a thorough investigation it has been decided that there is insufficient evidence for any individual to be charged with the cartel offence. Accordingly, the case has been closed.

Summary of work

In April 2010 the OFT executed a search warrant at a business address in the West Midlands in connection with a criminal investigation into suspected cartel activity in the supply of products for use in the agricultural sector. The investigation was carried out under the Enterprise Act 2002 which makes it a criminal offence for individuals dishonestly to engage in certain cartel conduct.

Published 3 August 2011