The Spanish competition authority, CNMC, has fined Repsol Comercial de Productos Petrolíferos, S.A., Solred, S.A., and Campsa Estaciones de Servicio, S.A. a total of €20.5 million for their abusive pricing strategy that negatively impacted independent service stations. This fine is a result of their actions during a period when Repsol held a dominant position in the wholesale fuel market.

During the sanctioned period, Repsol increased wholesale prices for automotive fuels, particularly Gasóleo A (GOA), while simultaneously offering discounts at their own service stations. This dual strategy led to a significant reduction in sales for independent competitors, particularly those operating in high-demand areas.

The CNMC's investigation revealed that Repsol's actions constituted a serious infringement of competition law, specifically Article 62.4.b) of the Spanish Competition Act and Article 102 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. As a result, the companies involved will also be prohibited from participating in public contracts for a period of six months.

The CNMC's decision underscores the responsibility of dominant firms to avoid practices that restrict competition, especially in markets where they have significant market power. The authority's actions aim to ensure fair competition and protect consumers from anti-competitive behavior.