The Croatian Competition Authority (AZTN) has launched an administrative procedure against Gradimir Šešelj, the owner of the fruit and vegetable production business SILVA, located in Opuzen. This action aims to investigate whether Šešelj has exploited significant negotiating power by imposing unfair trading practices on his mandarin suppliers.

The initiation of this procedure was prompted by AZTN's official duty, following a compliance check regarding the business practices of buyers in relation to mandarin suppliers under the Food Supply Chain Unfair Trading Practices Act (ZNTP). During this review, indications emerged that SILVA may have acted contrary to the provisions of the ZNTP.

It is important to note that the commencement of an administrative procedure does not automatically imply a violation of the ZNTP. AZTN is required to establish all relevant facts and circumstances, as well as concrete evidence that supports the indications that led to the initiation of the procedure.

Consequently, AZTN will examine all elements related to the content and realization of the business relationships between SILVA and its mandarin suppliers. A substantive decision will be made only after a complete factual determination.

Due to the protection of business secrets, AZTN cannot comment or disclose details about the ongoing procedure. A substantive decision will be published on their website upon completion of the procedure.