Indian Court Dismisses Asian Paints' Plea Against Antitrust Inquiry
The Maharashtra High Court has dismissed Asian Paints' plea to quash an ongoing antitrust inquiry, reinforcing the Competition Commission of India's investigation into the company's alleged abuse of its dominant market position.
Asian PaintsAntitrust InquiryCompetition Commission Of IndiaBirla OpusMarket ShareReal Estate MaharashtraSep 11, 2025
Asian Paints sought to quash the inquiry in July by mounting a challenge at the High Court in Mumbai, arguing that CCI officials damaged its reputation by publishing - and then deleting - allegations against its CEO from the investigation order. The High Court in a brief hearing on Thursday dismissed the company's plea, and a detailed order will be issued later, said the six sources.
The court found 'no merit' in Asian Paints' plea, one of the sources said. Asian Paints did not respond to a request for comment. The CCI and Birla Opus - the paints arm of Aditya Birla Group company Grasim Industries, led by billionaire Kumar Mangalam Birla - also did not respond to requests for comment.
Rapid infrastructure and real estate growth in India, one of the world's fastest-growing economies, has made the paints business a lucrative sector worth around $9.5 billion. Birla dented Asian Paints' dominance after its launch in February 2024, growing rapidly to a near 7% market share by March this year, according to Elara Capital data. The CCI's initial review showed Asian Paints imposed what it called unfair conditions on dealers, which it considered 'exploitative conduct'.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main issue in the antitrust inquiry against Asian Paints?
The main issue is that Asian Paints is alleged to have abused its dominant market position by offering discounts and incentives to dealers, which competitors argue is unfair and exploitative.
Who filed the complaint against Asian Paints?
The complaint was filed by Birla Opus, a rival paints company and a subsidiary of Grasim Industries, part of the Aditya Birla Group.
What was Asian Paints' argument in the High Court?
Asian Paints argued that the CCI officials damaged its reputation by publishing and then deleting allegations against its CEO from the investigation order.
What was the High Court's decision on Asian Paints' plea?
The High Court in Mumbai dismissed Asian Paints' plea, finding no merit in the company's arguments and allowing the antitrust inquiry to continue.
How has the paints market in India been affected by recent growth?
Rapid infrastructure and real estate growth in India have made the paints business a lucrative sector worth around $9.5 billion, with Birla Opus gaining a significant market share and challenging Asian Paints' dominance.
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