81.   The decision, announced Wednesday, clears the way for tougher competition between the two companies in the rapidly expanding European media business.

82.   The decision came after Samart Paging Co failed to meet its sales target, mainly the export market, due to tougher competition from several pager brandnames worldwide.

83.   The group is concerned about the worsening economy and tougher competition expected next year, chief executive officer Suthichart Chirathivat said.

84.   The move is likely to mean tougher competition for Skoda, the biggest Czech auto manufacturer.

85.   The operator of the Frankfurt stock exchange is gearing up for expansion as tougher competition and pressure from investors push exchange operators to join forces.

86.   The Russians will probably face tougher competition at their nationals at the beginning of January than they will at the European championships in Prague later that month.

87.   The Trade Ministry has countered that tougher competition would benefit the auto industry in the long run.

88.   Tougher competition and pressure from shareholders and investors has seen exchanges look to join forces so they can share technology costs and cut trading fees.

89.   Garten echoed those concerns, saying the United States is facing tougher competition for trade and investment opportunities in countries such as India and Pakistan.

90.   He also said that Barito had been exposed to tougher foreign competition recently, a factor which has been considered in the planned divestment.