Belgian competition watchdog probes coach firms for suspected antitrust violations

On Wednesday, the Belgian Competition Authority (BCA) carried out searches at coach companies that provide services for public transport operators De Lijn and TEC. The searches are part of an investigation into suspected bid rigging and price fixing.

The operation targeted multiple companies involved in the bus and coach transport sector. Searches took place in both Flanders and Wallonia and involved several major players in the industry, including subcontractors for public transport operators like De Lijn and TEC, as well as companies handling school transport and travel services.

The BCA’s action is based on suspicions of anti-competitive practices such as price fixing, market allocation, collusion in bidding processes, and other restrictive agreements. These practices are alleged to have violated both Belgian and EU competition laws. 

The Belgian Competition Authority is not currently disclosing the specific locations, companies, or number of actors involved in the searches. It stressed that a search “is a preliminary step in an investigation into restrictive competition practices and does not prejudge the outcome of the investigation.” 

Further details on the search results and any potential legal actions will be released as the investigation progresses.

The Federation of Belgian Bus and Coach Operators acknowledged the news on Wednesday afternoon but was unable to provide additional details. Public transport company De Lijn was also informed of the searches but had not been aware of them in advance and is now awaiting further information.

^{De Lijn busses © BELGA PHOTO KURT DESPLENTER}