The Competition Commission of India (CCI) Chairman, Mr Dhanendra Kumar, has cautioned trade association members against discussing pricing, supply and distribution, and thereby adversely affecting the markets.

“Whenever members of trade associations, who may otherwise be competitors, assemble and in that forum if they were to discuss pricing, supply or distribution, it could border on violation of Competition Act. There is need of sensitisation of trade associations because they are used to dealing in a particular way so far,” he said.

The trade associations are, however, free to discuss issues such as quality and standards, he pointed out.

He also said the CCI was keeping a close watch on cartels in food and other sectors. Finding prima facie evidence, the Director-General (Investigations) is already looking into the food cartels' role in onion pricesurge and the report will be ready soon.