The EC, which conducted the raids on Oct. 11, has reason to believe that the companies concerned may have violated Article 81 of the EC Treaty, which prohibits price-fixing practices.

Surprise inspections are a preliminary step in investigations into suspected cartels in Europe. ''The fact that the European Commission carries out such inspections does not mean that the companies are guilty of anti-competitive behavior nor does it prejudge the outcome of the investigation itself,'' according to the organization. ''The European Commission respects the rights of defense, in particular the right of companies to be heard in antitrust proceedings.''

So far, Cypress, Samsung, Mitsubishi, Toshiba and Sony have been contacted about a separate SRAM price-fixing probe by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ).

By: DocMemory
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