The Romanian Competition Council has launched an investigation into possible anticompetitive practices involving five companies operating in the sale of medical equipment and protective products used during epidemic or pandemic situations.
The inquiry centers on allegations of collusion during public procurement procedures organized in the context of EU-funded projects.
The authority conducted unannounced inspections at the headquarters of Axioma Medical SRL, Soul Medical SRL, Irika Knitting SRL, Bonina Trading SRL, and Smart Mind Solutions SRL, as part of the preliminary investigation. These companies are suspected of entering into anticompetitive agreements—such as price fixing or market sharing—during public tenders and direct award procedures related to medical supplies.
The contracts under scrutiny were financed through the Large Infrastructure Operational Programme (POIM) and involved the procurement of equipment essential for public health management during the COVID-19 pandemic. The suspected products include rapid antigen tests, air purification devices, disinfection robots, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
Evidence supporting the initiation of the investigation was provided in part by the Ministry of Investments and European Projects, which plays a key role in overseeing the use of EU structural funds in Romania.
The inspections were authorized by the Bucharest Court of Appeal and were carried out in accordance with legal procedures. The authority clarified that the inspections do not represent a formal finding of infringement but are intended to collect relevant evidence and documentation.
Should the investigation confirm a breach of competition rules, the implicated companies could face fines of up to 10% of their annual turnover. However, entities that cooperate with the authority through the leniency programme may be eligible for full immunity or a reduction in sanctions.
The case underscores the Romanian Competition Council’s continued vigilance in safeguarding public procurement processes, particularly in sectors of strategic importance such as healthcare, where collusion can directly affect public welfare and the efficient use of public funds.
