What is a common abusive practice employed by the private sector?

Collusion or price-fixing is recognized as a common abusive practice employed by the private sector because it undermines healthy competition and violates antitrust laws. In this context, companies may secretly agree to set prices at a certain level, limit production, or allocate markets among themselves, thereby distorting the free market. This practice ultimately harms consumers by limiting their choices and inflating prices since the competitive forces that typically regulate pricing and supply are suppressed.

In contrast, conducting fair competitor comparisons, providing comprehensive vendor information, and ensuring quality assurance are all practices that promote transparency, competition, and quality in the market, aligning with ethical business standards and benefiting consumers. These practices help maintain a level playing field and foster trust among participants in the marketplace, which is essential for a healthy economy.