AAI Calls for Stronger Antitrust Safeguards in Government Responses to COVID-19 Crisis

The AAI believes extraordinary public and private resources are necessary to address the COVID-19 crisis. The U.S. antitrust agencies have provided needed transparency regarding how they will address “cooperation” and “coordination” among firms at this difficult time. The AAI also believes, however, that the agencies should provide for stronger safeguards to ensure that any cooperation and coordination is pro-competitive, with demonstrable benefits to consumers and workers. The potential for antitrust violations by firms in highly concentrated markets and with histories of previous violations should be at the center of the government’s radar screen. The risk of lasting or permanent structural changes to healthcare, transportation, and other industries also warrants close scrutiny.