Collusion at the bidding: AMC penalizes five companies with a fine of UAH 12.9 million
26 September 04:03
The Antimonopoly Committee of Ukraine (AMCU) has fined five companies for collusion in public procurement. The total amount of fines amounted to UAH 12.9 million. This was reported by "Komersant Ukrainian" with reference to the AMCU press service.
Distortion of bidding results in the medical sector
The first decision concerns three companies: ADITUS IMPLANT MEDICAL LLC, SANTERS TRADE LLC, and MEDTORG SERVICE LLC.
They participated in open bidding for the purchase of medical equipment to support physiological functions of the body, in particular, systems for transpedicular spinal fixation, which was conducted by the State Enterprise Medical Procurement of Ukraine.
The investigation revealed the coordinated behavior of these companies, which led to the elimination of competition and distortion of the bidding results. The AMC imposed fines totaling UAH 947,465 for the violations.
Collusion in the procurement of drinking water
The second case concerned AQUARIUS GROUP LLC and NIDEL STREAM LLC, which colluded in the procurement of bottled water in June 2023.
Such concerted actions also indicate a violation of competition, for which the companies received fines in the amount of UAH 11,960,625.
Consequences for participants in public procurement
According to the Law of Ukraine “On Public Procurement”, companies that have been held liable for anticompetitive concerted actions in the last three years may be denied participation in tenders.
Thus, violation of competition during bidding not only entails financial penalties, but also limits the opportunities to participate in public procurement.
The AMCU’s decision emphasizes the need for compliance with the law and fair competition in public procurement. Monitoring compliance with public bidding rules ensures transparency, fairness and efficient use of public funds.
