The Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) in Poland has launched (12 November) an investigation into the Polish Kennel Club, one of the largest purebred dog breeding organizations in the country, amid suspicions of anti-competitive behavior. This club, the only Polish member of the International Cynological Federation (FCI), holds significant influence in the purebred breeding market due to its many events, pedigree issuance, and long-standing reputation.
The UOKiK’s inquiry centers on club policies that may restrict members’ rights, particularly rules barring them from joining other cynological associations unaffiliated with the FCI. Club members are prohibited from conducting breeding activities or participating in events organized by other associations. The rules also prevent judges working with the club from officiating at non-FCI events. These restrictions, according to UOKiK, could limit breeders’ opportunities, reduce the income of competing organizations, and constrain the market for pedigree dog breeding in Poland.
“Breeders should have the freedom to choose associations and events freely. No organization should abuse its position to limit the operations of other groups,” remarked Tomasz Chróstny, President of UOKiK.
UOKiK’s investigation will assess whether the Polish Kennel Club’s practices constitute anti-competitive behavior. Under Polish competition law, industry associations can be deemed “entrepreneurs” if their activities influence the market, making them subject to regulations against competition restriction. Previous cases involving other associations, such as the District Pharmaceutical Chamber and the Polish Football Association, have set precedents for applying antitrust law to similar organizations.
If the investigation uncovers evidence supporting the allegations, formal antitrust proceedings will commence, with possible penalties of up to 10% of the organization’s turnover. The UOKiK is also calling on anonymous whistleblowers with information about anticompetitive practices to come forward through a secure reporting platform, ensuring complete confidentiality for informants.
This investigation highlights UOKiK’s commitment to ensuring fair competition in specialized markets like purebred dog breeding, where influential associations may impact the diversity and accessibility of breeding opportunities for members and competitors alike.
Source: https://uokik.gov.pl/zwiazek-kynologiczny-w-polsce-postepowanie-wyjasniajace
