Government: Cartels most widespread in pharma, road construction

MOSCOW, Jul 29 (PRIME) -- Cartels are most widespread in the Russian pharmaceuticals industry and road construction, according to a statement published on the Kremlin’s website, citing head of the Federal Antimonopoly Service Igor Artemyev after his meeting with President Vladimir Putin.

“There are thousands of cartels. The pharmaceuticals industry and road construction industries are the most infected with cartels. There are collusions during almost 80–90% of all tenders announced by the government,” the statement read, adding that the cartels steal about 2% of the Russian gross domestic product (GDP).

According to the statement, a new law against cartels can be adopted in September–November.

Artemyev also said that the authorities must bear in mind competition when elaborating measures on fulfillment of the national projects.

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