Sumitomo suspected of illegal price fixing

The Japanese Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) conducted an investigation into Dunlop Tyre Japan — a subsidiary of Sumitomo Rubber Industries — which allegedly engaged in improper price-fixing of its tires at retail stores, in violation of antitrust laws.

The investigation concerns the Dunlop Synchro Weather all-season tires, which were advertised by Shohei Ohtani, a star of the American Major League Baseball (MLB). According to the commission, from October 2024 to April 2025, DTJ required dealers to sell the tires at a price of 20,000 to 60,000 yen (11,000-33,000 rubles), and threatened to stop supplies if they refused.

Sumitomo stated that the investigation has been completed, and the JFTC has approved the company's plan to comply with antitrust laws. However, it is emphasized that this does not mean that DTJ's actions were recognized as improper.

"We deeply apologize to our customers and business partners for the serious inconvenience and concern caused," Sumitomo noted, adding that they will "intensify efforts to ensure compliance with antitrust laws and all other laws and regulations."

The Dunlop Synchro Weather was introduced last year, and it is likely that due to its compliance with the requirements for Scandinavian-type winter tires on ice, it may become the first all-season tire for the northern climate.