The Competition and Consumer Protection (CCPC) has said that its review of complaints related to the fertiliser industry is still ongoing.

In March, the CCPC received two complaints alleging anti-competitive behaviour in the Irish fertiliser sector.

The complaints were forwarded to the watchdog’s enforcement division where they are undergoing a screening process.

If the CCPC finds any evidence of potential anti-competitive practices it may then decide to launch a full investigation.

"Given the nature of the allegations and the CCPC’s role as an enforcement body we cannot provide updates on the status of complaints," a CCPC spokesperson told Agriland.

It is understood that one of the complaints was lodged by the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers’ Association (ICMSA). Beef Plan Movement also lodged a complaint with the CCPC in March.

"As always, the CCPC welcomes evidence of potential anti-competitive behaviour in any sector.

"Individuals can contact the CCPC by emailing [email protected] or you can also submit information anonymously through our dedicated, confidential platform WhistleB," the spokesperson added.

Although fertiliser prices are continuing to decrease across the country there remains to be a significant variation in prices, depending on the outlet.

Agriland recently contacted a number of agri-stores across the country to find out what they are charging for a range of popular fertilisers and noted a difference of up to €50/t in prices for some of the compound fertilisers.

Merchants that have bought fertiliser more recently appear to be charging the lower rates and merchants that have stock from a few weeks ago are having to charge the higher rates as prices continue to decline.