Corning investigated by EU antitrust regulators over exclusive supply deals with phone makers

European Union antitrust regulators opened on Wednesday an investigation into U.S. glass maker Corning's exclusive supply deals with mobile phone makers and raw glass processing companies on concerns that se may exclude rival glass producers from large segments of market.

European Commission said it would assess wher Corning abused its dominant position in global market for glass used mainly in mobile phones.

"We are investigating if Corning, a major producer of this special glass, may have tried to exclude rival glass producers, reby depriving consumers from cheaper and more break-resistant glass," EU antitrust chief Margre Vestr said in a statement.

EU investigation will focus on exclusive sourcing obligations, exclusivity rebates and clauses requiring phone makers to inform Corning about competitive offers and accepting se offers only if Corning fails to match price, regulators said.

probe will also look into Corning's deals with companies that process raw glass that include exclusive purchase obligations and challenge clauses.

EU competition watchdog said Corning, which sells a break resistant glass used as cover for mobile phones, tablets and smartwatches under Gorilla Glass brand, may w offer concessions to dress its concerns.

Companies risk fines as much as 10% of ir global turver for breaching EU antitrust rules.