Commissie start onderzoek naar kartelvorming bij fabrikanten plastic zakken (en)

The European Commission can confirm it is investigating a number of companies over suspicions of a cartel in the industrial plastic bags sector. The investigation began in 2002 and on 29 April 2004 the Commission sent a statement of objections to 43 companies. These companies are owned by a smaller number of groups. The sending of a statement of objections is a step in European Union antitrust investigations and does not prejudge the final result. The companies were given eight weeks to reply in writing and can also request the holding of an oral hearing.

This confirmation was triggered by calls from journalists following a statement issued by UPM-Kymmene which can be found on the company's website.