Commission to reintroduce minimum prices for computer chips
The European Commission has announced that minimum prices for D-RAM computer memory chips are to be reintroduced on chips originating in Japan and Korea. Minimum prices were introduced in 1990 (for Japanese manufacturers) and 1993 (for Korean manufacturers) by the European Community, to stop the dumping of chips on European markets, which was harming European manufacturers. These measures were suspended in 1995, because of high price levels on European markets. The suspension of minimum prices expired on 10 March 1997. However, as the Commission's review of the measures will not be completed before June, new minimum prices will not be applied until 1 July 1997. In order to avoid sudden changes in prices in Europe, the Commission proposes that the reintroduction of minimum prices between now and 30 June be implemented gradually, allowing flexibility and minimal disruption for producers and users.