EC alleges steel makers formed cartel in pre-stressing rods

ERJ staff report (DS)

Brussels -- The European Commission has confirmed that it sent in October 2008 a Statement of Objections to a number of companies active in the supply of prestressing steel, concerning their alleged participation in a cartel in violation of EU rules on restrictive business practices. There is no suggestion that the tyre and rubber business was in any way affected, except, perhaps in the construction of buildings.

Prestressing steel consists of metal wires and strands made of wire rod. Prestressing steel is used in both prestressed concrete and post-tensioned concrete. Prestressed concrete is cast around already tensioned wire or strands and is generally prefabricated in a factory. It is used for smaller constructions such as balconies, foundation piles and pipes. For post-tensioned concrete, the steel is only tensioned after the concrete is poured, e.g. in structural engineering, underground engineering and bridge building.

All the companies concerned have now replied to the Statement of Objections and the Commission is in the process of considering their replies. The EC did not release a list of companies involved in the alleged cartel.

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Press release from European Commission