Korean regulator dismisses claims related to Qualcomm’s WCDMA business practices

www.WirelessFederation.com/news: Qualcomm Incorporated stated today that while it is pleased with the Korea Fair Trade Commission’s (KFTC) findings of no violation with regard to much of the complaint brought by the Case Examiner, it firmly disagrees with the KFTC decision that certain discounts and rebates it provides to its Korean customers on the purchase of its CDMA chipsets are in violation of Korean competition law.  The decision by the KFTC includes a corrective order relating to the specific practices at issue and an administrative fine of approximately $200 million, however there is no indication of how this figure was calculated other than a reference to Qualcomm’s significant Korean revenue.  Additional details regarding this decision, including how the KFTC calculated the fine, will not be available until issued by the KFTC in the form of a written decision and order which may take several months.  Qualcomm maintains that the findings of violations are based upon serious factual and legal errors, and that the Company’s practices are lawful, appropriate and pro-competitive.  Qualcomm also believes that the fine is excessive and unwarranted.  Qualcomm will appeal the decision to the Korean courts and continue vigorously to defend itself against the claims of unlawful conduct. (more…)