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The Competition Board heard Yildiz Entegre's oral defense at the Competition Authority's headquarters in an investigation into alleged collusion in timber auctions. Deputy Chairman Ahmet Algan chaired the hearing, which concerned claims that MDF and particleboard producers coordinated their conduct in auctions organized by the General Directorate of Forestry.

An investigation team representative said investigators concluded that Yildiz Entegre had colluded with competitors, violating competition law, and recommended an administrative fine. The representative also said the company did not qualify for an individual exemption. Proceedings involving other producers had ended through settlements, while the investigation into Yildiz Entegre continued under the ordinary procedure.

Yildiz Entegre's representative denied any auction-sharing arrangement, saying the allegations rested on speculation. The representative said the company had cheaper alternative supply sources, did not rely primarily on auctions and mainly sought beech timber when participating. The defense also maintained that no documents obtained from the company or evidence of information-sharing supported the allegations, and argued that market transparency allowed competitors to anticipate one another's behavior.

The board will announce its final decision within 15 days. If it reaches a decision sooner, the outcome will be published on the Competition Authority's website.

Key Takeaways

• Investigators recommended a fine over alleged collusion in forestry timber auctions.
• Yildiz Entegre denied auction-sharing and challenged the evidence against it.
• The Competition Board will announce its final decision within 15 days.