Should the Competition Bureau Change How It Grants Immunity to Price-Fixers Who Come Forward?
Official title: Competition Bureau invites feedback on revisions to its Immunity Program
The Competition Bureau asked for feedback on its Immunity Program—the rules for companies or individuals who report their own involvement in price-fixing, bid-rigging, or other anti-competitive crimes. Come forward first, cooperate fully, and you might avoid prosecution. This consultation sought input on whether those rules needed updating.
Why This Matters
Price-fixing and bid-rigging drive up costs for everyone—from groceries to construction projects. This program encourages insiders to blow the whistle on cartels. Stronger immunity rules could mean more cartels get caught, potentially lowering prices you pay.
What Could Change
The Bureau could tighten or loosen requirements for companies seeking immunity. Changes might affect how quickly whistleblowers must come forward, what cooperation is required, and how confidentiality is handled. This shapes whether cartels get exposed or stay hidden.
Key Issues
- What requirements should companies meet to qualify for immunity from prosecution?
- How should the 'first-in' approach work for companies reporting anti-competitive activity?
- What cooperation and confidentiality obligations should immunity applicants have?