OREANDA-NEWS. September 26, 2014. The insurance company notified Saratov OFAS Russia about paying 4.95 million RUB fine imposed for violating the antimonopoly law.

The Office of the Federal Antimonopoly Service in the Saratov region (Saratov OFAS Russia) found that “Rosgosstrakh” Ltd. violated the Law “On Protection of Competition” in the part of prohibiting competition-restricting agreements between competitors (Part 1 Article 11 of No.135-Federal Law).

Taking part in an open auction of “MRSK Volga” OJSC for the right to conclude a financial service contract, the insurance company started issuing OSAGO policies even before concluding the contract.

The Commission of Saratov OFAS Russia concluded that “Rosgosstrakh” Ltd. had gained an unreasonable advantage in comparison with other bidders at the open auction since the company concluded the contract with “MRSK Volga” and started executing it before closing the auction.

Based on the decision confirming the fact of the violation, the antimonopoly body opened administrative proceedings against the insurer and fined the company around 24 million RUB. In its turn, “Rosgosstrakh” Ltd. successfully challenged the decision at FAS Russia and the fine was reduced to 4.95 million RUB. Then the company attempted to challenge the determination of Saratov OFAS Russia and FAS decision at Courts, but judiciary supported the position of the antimonopoly bodies.