The Competition Bureau has “zero tolerance” for companies using inflation as a “cover to engage in anti-competitive conduct,” commissioner Matthew Boswell said at an event hosted by the Centre for International Governance Innovation on Thursday. He cited the agency’s collaboration with its peers in other Five Eyes countries on supply-chain issues. (The Logic)

Talking point: The Bank of Canada blames high inflation on a variety of factors, including rising commodity costs following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a poor farming season, and global semiconductor shortages. Boswell didn’t want to get into the determinants, but noted that “open, competitive markets” keep “prices in check.” In November 2021, the commissioner publicly called for a review of Canada’s competition policy. On Thursday, Boswell approvingly cited Senator Howard Wetston’s consultation focused on digital markets, the government’s promise of a broader review, and changes to the Competition Act in the April 2021 budget. “In my view, this is meaningful progress in a short period of time,” Boswell said.