OREANDA-NEWS. September 04, 2009. BRIC International Competition Conference – is one more step in activization of international cooperation in the field of competition policy and anti-cartel activity should become its top-priority goal. It was mentioned by the Head of the Federal Antimonopoly Service (FAS Russia) Mr. Igor Artemiev at the Opening Ceremony of the BRIC International Competition Conference in Kazan (Republic of Tatarstan), reported the press-centre of FAS Russia.

The Head of FAS Russia marked in his report the factors to determine high probability of cartelization of economy of the BRIC countries. That is as high scale of production concentration, existence of strong corporative ties, imperfection of the market institutions so substantial state intervention to economy and attractiveness of the national markets for transnational corporations. 

Igar Artemiev referred in detail on anti-cartel experience of the Russian antimonopoly agency. In particular, the Head of the FAS Russia told to foreign participants about improvement of the antimonopoly legislation in Russia.

On the 23rd of August so-called “ Second antimonopoly package of laws” entered into force. Since this date FAS Russia and its Regional Bodies could recognize the company as dominant if its market share is less than 35 %. In particular, it could concern trade networks affecting goods producers although these trade networks do not occupying dominant position in the market.

The Law clarified provisions on leniency program. Now only the first company applying for leniency gains immunity.

”Maximum punishment for cartel agreement - is 7 years of imprisonment”, - noted Igor Artemiev. .

According to the enacted Law FAS Russia has the power to appeal to a court Acts of the legislative bodies of the Subjects of the Russian Federation, which stipulate unreasonable providing of preferences. The Law stipulates issuing prescriptions on returning of unreasonably provided property.

Moreover, disqualification is introduced as measure of administrative responsibility for state and municipal officials (up to 3 years). “It means, that official three times violated the Law on competition during two years will have no rights to occupy his position”, - Igor Artemiev explained. .

In conclusion the Head of FAS Russia expressed his gratitude to co-organizers of the Conference – the Heads of competition authorities of Brazil, India and China - in preparation and holding of such remarkable event.