Our approach to competition laws
Shell operating companies are committed to the 
Shell General Business Principles that support free enterprise and require us to compete ethically, fairly and in-line with applicable competition laws.
"Infringement of competition law will not be tolerated in Shell. My position on this is unequivocal. If you engage in illegal discussions with competitors, you will face disciplinary action up to and including dismissal." - Rob Routs Executive Director Downstream (2006)
One of the most serious breaches of competition law is price fixing. This is where competitors collude to set the price of goods and services: it distorts the market and is unfair to customers.
Staff training and awareness
Since the mid-1990s, we have run an extensive training programme to help employees follow competition laws and are working hard to strengthen the culture of compliance. Obeying competition laws is an essential part of our new Code of Conduct. Our Global Antitrust Compliance Programme has been strengthened. Anyone in contact with competitors, suppliers or business customers is required to take training.
Monitoring and Reporting
We monitor all the countries in which we trade and report publicly where we have been found guilty by any Competition Authority of having violated competition law. In 2006, we were fined for participating in two cartels. For details please refer to our section on Competition Laws in our 2006 Sustainability Report - opens in a new window.
Related links
Our approach to business integrity
Political activity and public advocacy
