The Greek Competition Authority has announced a prioritized examination and assignment of a case related to the railway freight transport and maintenance services market. This decision is in accordance with Article 15 of Law 3959/2011, which protects free competition.

The investigation focuses on practices of a company operating in this market, prompted by a complaint alleging abuse of dominant position through pricing and non-pricing practices, as outlined in Article 2 of Law 3959/2011 and Article 102 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU).

Additionally, the case is linked to a referral from the Railway Regulatory Authority, which concerns the effective implementation of commitments made by the company based on a previous decision by the Authority.

To facilitate the investigation, the General Directorate of Competition conducted surprise inspections at the company and sent questionnaires to other industry players.

The Greek Competition Authority, as the guardian of the proper functioning of the free market, is responsible for enforcing competition rules under Law 3959/2011 and Articles 101/102 TFEU. These laws prohibit agreements that restrict competition and abusive practices by dominant firms.

The assignment of a case to a rapporteur initiates the deadlines for decision-making as per paragraphs 4 and 5 of Article 15 of Law 3959/2011, although it does not predetermine the content of the recommendation or decision. The legal deadline is indicative, and the duration of each case's examination depends on its complexity, the volume of the administrative file, and the cooperation level of the companies involved.