CNMC investigates a possible hospital serum cartel

2026-09-16T10:15:00
Spain
Inspections of several companies in the sector for alleged price-fixing and customer allocation agreements
CNMC investigates a possible hospital serum cartel
September 16, 2026

The Spanish National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC) has opened an investigation into possible anticompetitive practices in the hospital serum and parenteral nutrition product supply sector. Specifically, the companies under investigation may have entered into agreements and/or concerted practices involving price-fixing and allocation of customers and/or contract awards in the context of tenders called by public and private hospitals, regional healthcare procurement aggregation bodies, and regional health departments.

Between 9 and 12 June 2026, the CNMC carried out inspections at the premises of several entities operating in the sector. These actions constitute a preliminary step towards the possible initiation of sanctioning proceedings and do not prejudge the outcome of the investigation or the liability of the companies concerned. It should be noted that agreements between competitors constitute a very serious infringement of the Spanish Competition Act (LDC) and may result in fines of up to 10% of the total turnover of the companies involved.

For more information, please contact our specialists through the Knowledge and Innovation Area.

September 16, 2026