Competition Law at American Samoa (US)
American Samoa enforces competition law through a combination of federal statutes applicable to U.S. territories and locally enacted legislation. While it does not have a dedicated competition authority like some U.S. states, enforcement is primarily the responsibility of the Attorney General’s Office.
🇺🇸 Federal Antitrust Laws
As an unincorporated U.S. territory, American Samoa is subject to federal antitrust laws, including:
Sherman Antitrust Act (1890): Prohibits anticompetitive agreements and unilateral conduct that monopolizes or attempts to monopolize the relevant market.
Clayton Act (1914): Addresses practices that may harm competition, such as mergers and acquisitions that substantially lessen competition
Federal Trade Commission Act (1914): Empowers the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to prevent unfair methods of competition and deceptive acts affecting commerce.
These laws are enforced by federal agencies, including the Department of Justice Antitrust Division and the FTC.
🏛️ Local Legislation in American Samoa
American Samoa has enacted its own competition-related laws, notably:
Antitrust Act: Prohibits practices such as price fixing, bid rigging, and monopolization.
Fair Business Practices Act: Addresses deceptive trade practices and promotes fair competition.
These laws are enforced by the Attorney General’s Office, which investigates and prosecutes violations. Individuals and businesses can report potential antitrust violations to this office.
⚖️ Enforcement and Penalties
Violations of competition laws in American Samoa can result in:
Fines: Monetary penalties imposed on violators.
Injunctive Relief: Court orders requiring violators to cease unlawful practices.
Private Lawsuits: Individuals and businesses harmed by anticompetitive behavior can file lawsuits to seek damages.
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