Fair Competition

Fair competition encompasses compliance with antitrust and competition laws, avoidance of anti-competitive practices, and support for competitive markets that benefit consumers and society.

ISO 26000 emphasises that organisations should conduct their activities in a manner consistent with competition laws and regulations, and should not engage in anti-competitive behaviour such as price fixing, bid rigging, market allocation, or abuse of dominant position. GRI 206 (Anti-competitive Behavior) requires disclosure of legal actions for anti-competitive behaviour, antitrust, and monopoly practices. Competition authorities worldwide have increased enforcement, with significant fines imposed for cartel behaviour, abuse of dominance, and anti-competitive mergers. The intersection of competition law and sustainability is evolving, with competition authorities increasingly considering how to accommodate sustainability agreements between competitors.

Further Reading

• ISO 26000 — Fair operating practices guidance
• OECD Guidelines for MNEs — Responsible business conduct

Key Resources

• OECD Competition Policy
• International Competition Network (ICN)

Related Topics

• Fair Operating Practices
• Human Rights
• SDG 16: Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions