The Spanish CNMC has initiated a sanctioning procedure against Renfe Mercancías, Renfe-Operadora, and Pecovasa for possible anticompetitive practices in the rail freight traction services market in Spain.

The investigation focuses on a tender for rail traction services issued by Pecovasa in January 2022, where Renfe Mercancías allegedly benefited unfairly from the award. The competition in the rail transport of automobiles in Spain may also have been affected.

The CNMC is examining whether Renfe Mercancías and Pecovasa restricted competition in a tender called by Pecovasa, potentially violating competition laws in Spain and the EU.

The investigation was triggered by a complaint from the Association of Private Railway Companies, leading to inspections in October 2023. The CNMC found reasonable evidence of potential breaches of competition laws by the companies involved.

The initiation of the procedure does not prejudge the final outcome, with a period of up to 24 months set for the CNMC to investigate and resolve the case.