Pirelli confirms EC antitrust inspectors visit

Pirelli has confirmed that it is among the tyre manufacturers in European Union member states receiving an unannounced visit from European Commission investigators today, according to Tyrepress sister site PneusNews. The EC is concerned that companies producing replacement market tyres for cars, vans, trucks and busses may have “violated EU antitrust rules that prohibit cartels and restrictive business practices.” A Pirelli spokesperson said the company “has always acted in total compliance with all rules and regulations,” adding that “it is guaranteeing full support” to investigators.

In its announcement of the initial raids, which took place across several different EU member states, the EC said it is “concerned that price coordination took place amongst the inspected companies, including via public communications.” Investigations are ongoing, and there should be no presumption of guilt based on the identities of the companies confirming their part in the investigations.