České dráhy reject the decision of the European Commission

Today, the European Commission announced that it has found České dráhy liable for breaching EU antitrust laws in the form of an alleged cartel agreement, which was to be carried out between the years 2012 and 2016 between České dráhy and the Austrian carrier ÖBB, in order to restrict the sale of used railway cars to other carriers. České dráhy were fined EUR 31 940 000 for the alleged conduct.

České dráhy fundamentally disagree with the decision and deny any alleged interference with the trade of used railway cars belonging to ÖBB, as the cars were continuously being sold to various companies, always on a market principle at the highest price offered. The investigation of the entire matter has been taking place for over 8 years and, according to České dráhy, there have been unjustified delays, violations of their procedural rights and the course of the proceedings demonstrate a clear desire to punish someone after a very lengthy investigation.

As a result, the decision that has been reached is considered as legally flawed by České dráhy, as it overlooks substantial evidence and does not reflect the actual state of the matter. České dráhy will continue to defend themselves against the decision before EU judicial authorities, as they believe that the European Commission did not take into account all relevant facts of the matter, including the fact that České dráhy did not actually enjoy any preferential treatment in the purchase of used vehicles. České dráhy emphasise that they are prepared to face the financial impact of the fine, without it having an adverse impact on their economic performance, as a financial reserve has been created for the fine in question. 

České dráhy will not comment on the matter any further until the proceedings before the EU judicial authorities have been concluded.