FAS found a cartel in the field of laboratory research

The Federal Antimonopoly Service (FAS) of Russia has revealed a cartel in the field of laboratory research – the total amount of contract prices may be over 1.1 billion rubles. About it reported in the department’s press office.

“Five companies are suspected of bid rigging for the supply of laboratory and manufacturing equipment, laboratory consumables and chemical products,” the report said.

It is specified that cases of violation of antimonopoly law were initiated against the companies Molbiol, Medstandard, Rusmedtorg, Eluentlaboriz and Analytical Manufactory LLC.

“The basis for initiating the case was the materials received by the FAS Russia, including through the monitoring of procurement procedures,” the office added. Also, the FAS clarified that a case was initiated under paragraph 2 of part 1 of Art. 11 FZ (on raising, lowering or maintaining prices at auction).

In December 2022, the State Duma accepted the government’s draft law on increased liability for cartels in mandatory bidding is on first reading. It was proposed to tighten Art. 178 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (On the restriction of competition), if the creation of a cartel led to an increase, decrease or maintenance of prices at the auction.

FAS explained the need for such an initiative by a large number of bid rigging. “At the same time, tenders are a special mechanism that was created for the purpose of efficient use of budgetary funds,” the service explained at the time.