The Polish competition authority, UOKiK, has launched an investigation into allegations of bid rigging and market division among 11 companies involved in a significant public transport tender for bus services in the Silesian agglomeration. The tender, organized by the Metropolitan Transport Authority, is valued at 1.3 billion PLN and covers services from 2022 to 2029.

Evidence gathered during searches at the companies' offices suggests that some participants may have colluded to eliminate competition and divide the lucrative contract among themselves. The companies allegedly agreed to form consortia to participate in the tender, which is not illegal in itself. However, it is unlawful for these companies to coordinate their bids and decide in advance who would win specific parts of the contract.

UOKiK President Tomasz Chróstny stated that if the suspicions are confirmed, the companies could face serious financial penalties, impacting public sector costs and taxpayers. The accused companies include IREX-1, IREX-2, and several others from the region.

UOKiK can intervene when irregularities in tenders involve agreements that restrict competition. Other authorities, such as the Public Procurement Office and law enforcement agencies, may also address public procurement irregularities. Companies involved in such collusion may avoid severe penalties through a leniency program, which offers reduced or waived fines in exchange for cooperation and evidence against the collusion.

UOKiK encourages whistleblowers to report anti-competitive practices anonymously through their dedicated platform, ensuring complete confidentiality.