Which statement is true regarding bid rigging?

Bid rigging is a form of collusion where competing parties agree on the bidding process for contracts, undermining competition. This is most commonly viewed as an illegal activity because it distorts the market, reducing competition and leading to inflated prices. This behavior is prohibited under antitrust laws because it restricts free competition, which is essential for fair market pricing and consumer choice. When bidders collude to set prices or allocate contracts, they eliminate the competitive environment that typically drives innovation, efficiency, and better prices for consumers.

On the other hand, the other options present misleading characteristics. Bid rigging is not legal in any industry; it conflicts with laws designed to promote fair trade. Rather than increasing competition, it effectively dismantles it by making it easier for colluding parties to set prices and divide the market, which harms consumers' interests. Furthermore, it does not ensure lower prices for consumers; instead, it often leads to higher prices due to reduced competition and decreased market pressures. Therefore, asserting that bid rigging is a legal practice or beneficial in terms of competition and pricing is incorrect.