Big fines for heat stabilizer cartelBig fines for heat stabilizer cartel

Antitrust fines galore: The European Commission imposed €173 million in fines on 10 companies for what it says was their participation in a lengthy price-fixing scheme for heat stabilizers. The charges pertain to tin stabilizers during the years 1987-2000, and to ESBO/ester heat stabilizers between 1991-2000. The combined markets for tin stabilizers and ESBO/esters in the EEA was worth about €121 million at the time of the infringement. Two charts (below) detail the level of fines at all of the participants. Processors and compounds who believe they may have been affected by the price fixing scheme may seek damages.