FAS HAS RE-APPROVED PREFERENCES FOR ST. PETERSBURG PHARMACIES FOR PROTECTING THE HEALTH OF CITIZENS

The authority found that the company complies with the restrictions previously imposed when granting preferences, including those aimed at expanding the minimum range of medicines in pharmacies.

FAS Russia receives applications from the Property Relations Committee of St. Petersburg on the approval of state preferences. We are talking about the transfer of real estate objects to lease by St. Petersburg Pharmacies JSC.

The purpose of preferences is to protect the health of citizens by placing pharmacies, in which, among other things, medicines are manufactured according to doctors’ prescriptions. The authority found that the company’s activities meet the stated goal.

Earlier, FAS Russia has already approved preferences with the introduction of restrictions by St. Petersburg Pharmacies JSC. In addition to the standard restrictions, the requirements of the authority included the sale in pharmacies of at least two medicines in each category from the minimum assortment necessary for the provision of medical care. This measure is aimed at providing citizens with medicines at affordable prices. Maintaining a minimum assortment contributes to the timely provision of medicines to the population. Earlier, the courts of two instances supported the position of the authority regarding the restrictions imposed.

The company has fulfilled the requirements of FAS Russia. The Committee posted on the website information about the possibility of obtaining property for rent, while indicating that no applications for preferences from other business entities have been received. The authority has decided to re-approve the preferences on the transfer of property to the lease of St. Petersburg Pharmacies JSC for another year with the introduction of restrictions.

FAS Russia will monitor compliance with the requirements of antimonopoly legislation when using preferences. If violations are detected, the authority issues a ruling to take appropriate measures*.

For reference:

*Article 21 of Federal Law No. 135-FZ of 26.07.2006 "On Protection of Competition"