Hokkaido Governor Naomichi Suzuki expressed deep regret over alleged bid-rigging in the Sapporo extension of the Hokkaido Shinkansen line, urging a swift investigation to minimize impact on the project and alleviate public anxiety about the opening timeline.
JR Hokkaido President Yasuyuki Watari apologized for bid-rigging allegations in the Hokkaido Shinkansen extension project. The Fair Trade Commission is investigating 9 companies, including JR Hokkaido's subsidiary, for suspected violations of the Anti-Monopoly Act. Local governments expressed concern over project impact and cost justification.
The Japan Fair Trade Commission has begun an investigation into suspected bid-rigging concerning track-laying construction for the Hokkaido Shinkansen extension. Allegations suggest companies divided contracts for the 10-section project, with high winning bid rates observed for completed sections.
