LAN-TAM Merger Put on Hold by Chilean Antitrust Authorities

LAN-TAM Merger Put on Hold by Chilean Antitrust Authorities

Chile's top antitrust authorities have suspended a merger between Chilean airline LAN and Brazilian airline TAM, a consumer-advocate organization and local news media are report. The daily newspaper La Tercera is reporting that the five members of the Court for the Defense of Free Competition agreed to suspend the merger while they determine whether it complies with antitrust regulations.

The newspaper reported Saturday that the decision was issued the day before, based on a petition submitted by the private National Consumer Corporation. Corporation president Hernan Calderon told radio Cooperativa on Saturday that "we value the court's ruling."