Competition Authority Launches Probe into Seven Hazelnut Giants, Including Ferrero

November 6, 2026 · Dünya Gazetesi

The Competition Authority has initiated an investigation into seven companies, including Ferrero, on suspicion of violating free market principles by jointly determining hazelnut purchase prices and policies.

Hazelnut Market Faces Competition Probe

The Competition Authority has launched an investigation into seven companies on suspicion of violating market competition by jointly determining hazelnut purchase prices and policies. According to an announcement on the Competition Authority's website, a preliminary investigation in the hazelnut purchase and sale sector has been completed. In line with the ongoing investigation, it will be comprehensively examined whether the firms have violated Law No. 4054 on the Protection of Competition and whether they have influenced price formation.

Seven Companies Under Scrutiny

Among the companies included in the Board's investigation are Ferrero Fındık İthalat İhracat ve Ticaret AŞ, Atalay Fındık Sanayi ve Ticaret Ltd. Şti., and Balsu Gıda Sanayi ve Ticaret AŞ. The list also includes Karaçuha Tarım Ürünleri İthalat İhracat Sanayi ve Ticaret Ltd. Şti., Ofi Tarım Sanayi ve Ticaret AŞ, Özyılmaz Fındık Sanayi ve Ticaret AŞ, and Şenocak Gıda Fındık Entegre Turizm Nakliyat İnşaat Sanayi Ticaret Ltd. Şti.

Ferrero's Commitments Under the Microscope

During the investigation, Ferrero's compliance with the commitments made binding by the decision dated March 7, 2024, will also be audited. According to the company's obligations covering the years 2024, 2025, and 2026, it is stated that shelled hazelnuts cannot be purchased below the reference price of the Turkish Grain Board (TMO). Furthermore, it will be investigated whether Ferrero adheres to the rule of not exceeding a purchase limit of 100,000 tons each season and purchasing at least 45,000 tons of shelled hazelnuts between September and December.

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