Recently there have been a number of news items in some media organs concerning the Competition Authority opinion rendered in relation to the "Draft Regulations on Shopping Centers," prepared by the Ministry of Customs and Trade. Consequently, a need for a statement has arisen:

The opinion of the Competition Authority concerning the draft regulations in question has been requested. The opinion of the Authority essentially states that in a market economy based on competition, undertakings are free to implement discounts and that it would be beneficial if the regulations were structured in such a way as to facilitate such discounts.

Other than the aforementioned assessment, the Authority does not have any negative assessment or opinion concerning the "Draft Regulations on Shopping Centers".

Respectfully submitted for the information of the public.