Antitrust Investigation Targets Turkish Shipyards: 33 Companies Under Scrutiny
The Turkish Competition Authority has launched an investigation into 33 shipyard companies, 2 trade associations, and 1 consultancy firm. Allegations include anti-competitive practices in the labor market and collusion on employee wages.
The Turkish Competition Authority announced that, as of its decision dated August 14, 2025 (Decision No. 25-31/714-M), an official investigation has been initiated into 33 shipbuilding companies, 2 industry associations, and 1 consultancy firm. The inquiry aims to determine whether these entities have violated Article 4 of the Law on the Protection of Competition (Law No. 4054), in accordance with Article 41 of the same law.
According to the Authority’s statement, preliminary findings revealed serious concerns about potential restrictions on competition within the sector. The investigation centers on the following allegations:
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Exchange of sensitive labor market information
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Collusive determination of employee wages
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Participation in non-poaching agreements
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Facilitation of such agreements and their continuation
These practices are said to result in the fixing of labor input prices and the restriction of workforce mobility—both of which constitute violations of Law No. 4054.
This sweeping investigation could reshape labor policies and competitive dynamics within Turkey’s shipbuilding industry. Stakeholders across the sector are closely monitoring developments.
