The Netherlands' consumer protection regulator has launched an investigation into pricing practices at Dutch supermarkets, after reports that groceries in the country are more expensive than in its neighbours. Dutch consumer organisation Consumentenbond said earlier this year its research had shown German supermarkets on average were around 15% cheaper than Dutch ones. 'Insufficient competition'"If suppliers obstruct supermarkets in purchasing lower-priced products or if there is insufficient competition between supermarkets, it can lead to higher prices," the watchdog said. Examples include the failure of a proposal to cap supermarket prices, though a motion requiring shops to accept cash succeeded despite opposition from several governing parties. ADVERTISEMENT'A motion to legally cap the prices of several basic supermarket products failed,' it noted.