March 19 (Reuters) – Australia’s competition regulator said on Thursday it has launched an investigation into allegations of anti-competitive conduct by major fuel suppliers including Ampol, BP’s Australian unit, Mobil Oil Australia and Viva Energy’s unit.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission said it received reports regarding diesel availability to independent wholesalers and distributors serving regional and rural areas, and would assess the alleged conduct.
The probe comes amid widespread concerns among consumers, businesses and farmers over fuel pricing and supply issues against the backdrop of the Middle Eastern conflict.
Ampol and Viva Energy did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment, while ExxonMobil Australia declined to comment.
A spokesperson for BP Australia said the company “acknowledges the ACCC’s investigation into its market practices,” adding that it takes “these matters seriously and are reviewing the claims raised.”
ACCC said the investigation is at a preliminary stage and it has not yet formed a view on the matters.
“It is not our usual practice to publicly announce investigations, but given the significance of the issue, the ACCC is confirming this investigation,” said ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb.
The competition regulator added it is closely monitoring fuel markets and will act if needed to enforce competition and consumer laws.
(Reporting by Roshan Thomas in Bengaluru, additional reporting by Keshav Singh Chundawat; Editing by Shailesh Kuber)
