Competition Commission searches 12 sites in swimming pool cartel case

The Competition Commission executed search warrants at 12 premises on Tuesday as part of an investigation into a suspected cartel case involving HK$30 million in swimming pool service contracts.

The operation followed complaints alleging anti-competitive practices in the procurement of swimming pool maintenance services, equipment supply, and lifeguard services.

According to a statement released by the Commission, the search targeted the offices of several swimming pool service providers and the residences of seven individuals. 

The companies under investigation are suspected of bid-rigging, price-fixing, market allocation, and exchanging competitively sensitive information when providing quotations for private swimming pool contracts, including those in private housing estates.

The Commission confirmed that the alleged conduct may violate the First Conduct Rule of the Competition Ordinance.

During the operation, the officer also requested relevant parties to produce documents and information, and to attend before the Commission to provide information relating to the case.

"The suspected anti-competitive conduct not only harms competition in the market, but may also affect venue fees and service quality, potentially impacting many private housing residents and swimming pool users," the Commission stated.

It further reiterated that combating cartel activity affecting public services remains a core enforcement focus.