International Rail Makers Association

The International Rail Makers Association (IRMA) was a cartel for the export of rail profiles that existed (with longer interruptions) between 1883 and the Second World War.

History

Among cartel specialists, IRMA is known as the oldest larger international cartel, as the "grandmother of them all".[1] From the beginning, it was a quota cartel. The domestic markets were usually reserved.

Because of disappointment, the association broke up in 1886. It was revived again in 1904, but not renewed in 1907. In 1912, it was re-established but the First World War ended its operations.

In the inter-war period the rail cartel was re-established as the "European Rail Makers Association" (ERMA).[2] This name change was due to the reluctance of the American producers to join officially because of fear of antitrust entanglements.

The seat of IRMA was (since at least 1926): London (11, Ironmonger Lane). IRMA became defunct due to Second World War and the subsequently aggravated US antitrust.

Members and their shares

For 1883, the IRMA members and their shares were as follows:[3] Soon after this scheme was revised to: In 1904, the following distribution was agreed on: In 1912, the scheme was changed to:

For 1927, the larger members of ERMA and their shares were as follows:[4] Smaller members were: Poland, Austria, Hungary, Italy and some independent business groups.[5]

• Great Britain – 66 per cent of the available export business;
• Germany – 27 per cent;
• Belgium – 7 per cent.

• Great Britain – 63.5 per cent;
• Germany – 29 per cent;