CCI Raids Leading Ad Agencies, Broadcasters Over Alleged Price Collusion
CCI Raids Leading Ad Agencies, Broadcasters Over Alleged Price Collusion
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) conducted raids at multiple locations on Tuesday, targeting global advertising firms GroupM, Dentsu, and Interpublic Group, along with a broadcasters’ industry body, over allegations of price collusion.
According to a report in Business Standard, CCI officials searched around 10 locations across Mumbai, New Delhi, and Gurugram as part of an investigation into alleged fixing of ad rates and discounts between top media agencies and broadcasters.
Major Industry Players Under Scrutiny
The raids, which were first reported by Reuters, are part of an ongoing probe into unfair trade practices in the advertising sector. GroupM, a WPP-owned company and the world’s largest media buying agency, was among those targeted. The Indian Broadcasting and Digital Foundation, representing major broadcasters such as the Reliance-Disney joint venture, Sony, and Zee Entertainment, was also under investigation.
No Official Response Yet
Spokespersons for GroupM, Dentsu, and Interpublic’s IPG Mediabrands unit have not commented on the development. The CCI, which does not publicly disclose details of enforcement actions related to price collusion, has also not issued a statement.
This latest crackdown highlights the government’s continued efforts to curb anti-competitive practices in India’s media and advertising industries.
