News In Brief

John Deere is fined by EC over sales policy in Europe

The European Community Commission announced a $1.5 million fine Monday against the farm machinery manufacturer John Deere & Co. for blocking sales of its products between Community states.

The commission said that Deere, based in Moline, Ill., had sought to prevent farmers and dealers in the Community from importing such machinery from other member states where prices were lower.

Deere said that the fine was unjustified and it was considering a court appeal.