Sweden’s competition watchdog has ordered the Port of Gothenburg to pay a SEK 1.7 million fine (about €148,000) after finding that a terminal operating agreement was unlawfully awarded in breach of the country’s procurement rules governing concessions.
The ruling, issued by the Swedish Competition Authority, concluded that the port authority failed to comply with the Act on the Procurement of Concessions (LUK) when it directly granted a temporary concession without proper competitive procedures.
The fine underscores heightened regulatory scrutiny in Europe over how port concession contracts are tendered and awarded, as authorities seek to ensure transparency and fair access for potential operators.
The decision could prompt the Port of Gothenburg to review its concession practices and strengthen future procurement processes, particularly as it transitions to new operators at key terminals, including recently tendered vehicle and ro-ro facilities.
Port officials have not yet publicly commented on the ruling or indicated whether they will appeal the decision.