What specific conduct is the European Commission alleging against construction chemicals manufacturers and trade associations in its preliminary findings?

The European Commission alleges that several construction chemicals manufacturers and three national trade associations (Synad, Deutsche Bauchemie, and Anfah) coordinated future price increases for chemical additives for cement and chemical admixtures for concrete and mortar between 2021 and 2022, in response to rising raw material costs linked to the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s war against Ukraine, with the suspected coordination occurring during the preparation of joint press releases within those associations to justify the price hikes.

Which companies and trade associations have received Statements of Objections from the European Commission in this cartel investigation?

The European Commission sent Statements of Objections to manufacturers including Sika AG, Cemex, Chryso, Mapei SpA, Master Builders Solutions, MC Bauchemie Müller GmbH, TAM, Ha-be, Liesen, and Remei, as well as to the French trade association Synad, the German Deutsche Bauchemie, and the Spanish Anfah.

EU Commission ups ante in construction chemicals cartel investigation

Jul 21, 2026

The EU Commission issued Statements of Objections to construction chemicals manufacturers for colluding to raise prices on cement and concrete additives between 2021 and 2022. Companies face potential fines up to 10% of annual turnover if the cartel infringement is confirmed.

chemweek

2026-05-20

EU Commission Estimates Europe Can Cut Gas Consumption by 15 bcm This Year

2026-07-21

EU Commission ups ante in construction chemicals cartel investigation

EU Commission ups ante in construction chemicals cartel investigation

FAQ