The Spanish Competition Authority (CNMC) has launched an investigation into multiple travel agencies, including IAG7, Viajes El Corte Inglés, Nautalia Viajes, and Grupo Barceló, for potential anticompetitive agreements. These agreements may involve the division of clients and public tenders, as well as the exchange of commercially sensitive information, which could violate both national and EU competition laws.

The investigation was initiated following inspections conducted from March 28 to March 31, 2023, at the offices of the implicated companies. The CNMC emphasizes that the initiation of this investigation does not prejudge the final outcome, and a maximum period of 24 months is now set for the investigation and resolution of the case.

The CNMC highlights that agreements between competitors are considered a serious infringement of competition law, potentially leading to fines of up to 10% of the total turnover of the infringing companies. The detection of cartels is a priority for the CNMC due to the significant negative impact such practices can have on consumers and market functioning.

To encourage cooperation, the CNMC has a leniency program that allows companies to benefit from reduced fines or even immunity if they provide evidence that aids in the detection of the cartel. Additionally, companies applying for leniency may be exempt from contracting prohibitions related to serious competition law violations.

The CNMC also operates an online platform for anonymous reporting of anticompetitive practices, allowing individuals to report agreements between competitors regarding price fixing, market sharing, or fraudulent tender distributions.