La Generalitat pone el foco en los colegios profesionales por alterar la libre competencia | Las Provincias

Key Findings

The Generalitat Valenciana's Competition authority has released a report investigating professional colleges in the region for anti-competitive practices. The report alleges that these colleges create barriers to entry and restrict competition, potentially harming consumers.

Issues Identified

• Restrictions on Access to Profession: The report highlights that requirements for professional college membership act as a barrier to entry, limiting competition and reducing the variety of services available to consumers.
• Restrictions on Professional Practice: The report claims that restrictions imposed by the colleges on professional practice, including honorariums and access to lists of expert witnesses, further restrict competition.
• Anti-Competitive Practices: The report also criticizes practices like the colleges advocating for 'reserved activity' for their members, which it claims restricts opportunities for non-members.

Consequences of Anti-Competitive Practices

The report argues that these restrictions limit consumer choice, reduce innovation, and potentially lead to higher prices. Several professional colleges have already faced sanctions.

Recommendations

The Generalitat Valenciana recommends that professional colleges refrain from practices that distort free competition and urges public authorities to ensure equal access to the market.