On January 30, 2025, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) released a draft determination proposing to authorise several sugar companies, including Wilmar Sugar Trading Pty Ltd and Tully Sugar Limited, to engage in collective bargaining. This authorisation would allow them to negotiate and execute agreements related to the storage and handling of sugar at bulk terminals.

The ACCC's proposal includes a five-year authorisation period, which aims to facilitate better negotiation outcomes for the involved parties. In addition, the ACCC has granted interim authorisation, allowing the companies to begin negotiations and execute agreements, although they cannot implement any agreements until the ACCC completes its review of the substantive application.

The ACCC is inviting feedback on its draft determination, with responses due by February 21, 2025. Interested parties can find more details about the draft determination and interim authorisation on the ACCC's public register.