The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has penalised the Federation of Publishers’ and Booksellers’ Association in India (FPBAI) and three office-bearers for indulging in anti-competitive conduct. This includes fixing inflated conversion rates for imported books and journals, enforcing pricing terms on its members, and promoting only its approved suppliers to institutions. These practices violate Sections 3(3)(a), 3(3)(b) and 3(1) of the Competition Act.

Despite an earlier cease and desist order from CCI, old circulars related to discount restrictions remained online and unwithdrawn. Consequently, FPBAI has now been ordered to raise awareness about anti-competitive conduct among members and withdraw all past advisories. A penalty of Rs 6.33 lakh has been imposed on FPBAI and its office-bearers.