The International Commission for Uniform Methods of Sugar Analysis Ltd. (ICUMSA) is a company limited by guarantee and in effect a “not-for-profit organisation”.
ICUMSA’s work depends on the voluntary cooperation and collaboration of many different people from all parts of the worldwide sugar industry who come together to further the aims of the organisation, as stated in its Articles of Association. These include groups from sugar producers to sugar users and from legislators to traders, who may meet during National Committee meetings and at ICUMSA Sessions. ICUMSA is not organised to and may not play any role in the competitive decisions of its members, nor in any way restrict competition among members or potential members.
The Officers of ICUMSA recognise the possibility that the organisation and its activities could be viewed by some as an opportunity for anti-competitive conduct. Therefore, this statement clearly and unequivocally supports the policy of competition served by antitrust laws and to communicate ICUMSA’s intention to comply strictly in all respects with those laws.
Statement on Compliance with Competition Law
In order to remind members of the need for compliance the following statement is used prior to meetings.
“All meetings need to be conducted in accordance with relevant competition and antitrust laws.
You are therefore reminded that you must at all times refrain from discussing any information which is confidential to your company and/or which is likely to affect the commercial strategy or activities of your company. You are in the best position to judge what is commercially sensitive or confidential and so responsibility for compliance rests with you.
You are also reminded not to discuss topics outside of the circulated agenda.
Failure to follow these guidelines may bring with it serious consequences for you as an individual and your company including heavy fines and custodial sentences.”