The DGCCRF is opening a contact point to report abnormal price increases for construction materials.

At the request of Serge Papin, Minister for Small and Medium Enterprises, Trade, Crafts, Tourism and Purchasing Power, a single point of contact is now available to building companies to report any anomalies observed in the formation of prices for materials or intermediate products.

Construction material prices: increased monitoring by the DGCCRF

In a context marked by a sharp rise in energy prices, some tariff increases may be justified by changes in production or supply costs. However, public authorities wish to prevent any risk of abusive or anti-competitive practices that could lead to an artificial increase in prices.

Respect for competition rules remains essential to ensure the proper functioning of the economy and to allow businesses and consumers to compare prices under transparent and fair conditions.

It is with this in mind that the minister asked the DGCCRF to set up a dedicated system allowing construction industry players to report situations that seem abnormal to them, particularly when price increases appear to have no objective justification.

Building professionals are urged to report any anomalies.

Companies and professional federations in the sector can now send their reports to the following address: contact.inflation@dgccrf.finances.gouv.fr

The information collected will be analyzed by the DGCCRF services in order to identify any indications of anti-competitive practices or unjustified cost increases.

When the evidence presented warrants it, investigations may be initiated. Companies found responsible for abusive or anti-competitive behavior may be subject to prosecution and penalties.

Preserving the integrity of economic relations in the construction and public works sectors

Beyond price controls, the DGCCRF reiterates its full commitment to its mission of protecting economic public order. The administration is therefore continuing its efforts to promote fair business practices and the equitable distribution of value within various economic sectors, particularly in the construction industry.

According to Serge Papin, Minister for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises, Trade, Crafts, Tourism and Purchasing Power: “We know that events in the Middle East are impacting the prices of certain raw materials and products used by construction companies. But this fluctuation must not lead to abuses: I call for solidarity from all sectors during this period of tension and I hope that any company that notices irregularities will report them to the Fraud Prevention Agency. Faced with events that we did not choose but that affect us, let us stand together.”

Illustrative image of the article via Depositphotos.com.