Cartels are alliances established between independent (usually competing) companies with the aim of controlling the market. The following actions are also prohibited: price fixing between companies, coordinated restriction of production, partitioning of geographical markets, obstruction and exploitation strategies with respect to competitors and suppliers.
 
 Example: Imagine that all coffee machine manufacturers agree not to sell the cheapest coffee maker in each of their product ranges for less than 500 euros. Then no coffee machine would be available for less than 500 euros and the consumer would have to pay this price or do entirely without a coffee machine.
 
 Competition law prohibits aggressive (harassment, coercion, or undue influence) and misleading (incorrect specifications or other product information intended to deceive) business practices, with the aim of protecting companies and consumers. 
 
Examples: Using certification marks without the necessary approval, creating the impression that the courted party cannot leave the building without signing a contract, etc.