Antimonopoly Service Switzerland 156 million BMW fined francs (129.9 million euros) for hindering the free import of their cars. The investigation began in 2010, after the Competition Commission (Comco) has received complaints from the Swiss, who have not been able to acquire BMW and Mini cars in other countries in Europe. In Switzerland, the same machines are significantly more expensive than the stamps due to the strengthening of the franc against the euro. For example, in Switzerland in 2010, the price of the base model sedan BMW 5-series was 62200 francs, while in Germany the same model was 25% cheaper. To protect their Swiss dealers, BMW has found a way to block the import of auto dealers contract: according to the countries of the European economic area (EEA) do not have the right to sell cars to nationals of States outside the Union. "Consumers of Switzerland failed to benefit much difference currencies. Cutting them out of Switzerland, BMW provided a less competitive pressure on sales prices for new cars of BMW and Mini, Comco said in a statement.
Comco imposed on the BMW fine 156 million francs-10% of the net profits of the company in Switzerland and demanded to change the existing dealer agreements. Automakers did not violate antitrust laws, and its agreements with dealers comply with EU competition laws. During the month, the company intends to appeal to the Federal Administrative Court of Switzerland, said BMW spokesman Bill Makèndrûs. Regardless, BMW will win the case or not, automakers will likely reduce the price gap, experts point out.
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