OFT refers proposed acquisition by Pan Fish ASA of Marine Harvest NV - UK - The OFT today referred the proposed acquisition by Pan Fish ASA of Marine Harvest NV to the Competition Commission (CC).
The OFT has decided that the test for reference is met in relation to the supply of farmed Atlantic salmon in the European Economic Area (EEA).
Vincent Smith, OFT Director of Competition Enforcement said:
'The merger brings together the two largest suppliers of farmed Atlantic salmon in the EEA. The OFT has found that the loss of rivalry between these companies may cause an increase in the price of farmed Atlantic salmon, and thereby harm UK consumers. In addition to this, we found that any effects were likely to be felt more acutely amongst those consumers having a strong preference for Scottish salmon.'
The CC is expected to report by 20 December 2006.
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