The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word CARTELS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
C
A
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T
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S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Consortiums" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case consortiums = cartels.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does CARTELS mean?
CARTELS noun- A group of businesses or nations that collude to limit competition within an industry or market.
- A combination of political groups (notably parties) for common action.
- A written letter of defiance or challenge.
- An official agreement concerning the exchange of prisoners.
- A ship used to negotiate with an enemy in time of war, and to exchange prisoners.