On 4 September, the European Commission said it opened a formal investigation into Russian gas monopoly Gazprom on concerns the natural gas giant is hindering competition in Central and Eastern European gas markets, in breach of EU antitrust rules.
The Commission said in a press release that it’s investigating three suspected anti-competitive practices in Central and Eastern Europe.
“First, Gazprom may have divided gas markets by hindering the free flow of gas across Member States. Second, Gazprom may have prevented the diversification of supply of gas. Finally, Gazprom may have imposed unfair prices on its customers by linking the price of gas to oil prices.
Such behaviour, if established, may constitute a restriction of competition and lead to higher prices and deterioration of security of supply. Ultimately, such behaviour would harm EU consumers,” the Commission said. The opening of proceedings, which the Commission stressed does not prejudge the outcome, means that it "will treat the case as a matter of priority".
Read more: EU Gazprom probe threatens ties | New Europe
No comments:
Post a Comment