Russia Finds Apple Guilty of Fixing iPhone Prices

Apple has been found guilty of fixing iPhone prices in Russia. The country's Federal Antimonopoly Service announced the decision in a press release today.

The investigation revealed that from the start of official sales in Russia of the Apple iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus, most resellers installed the same prices on them, recommended by Apple Rus, and supported them For about 3 months.

At the same time, Apple Rus monitored retail prices for Apple iPhone smartphones installed by resellers in online stores and retail outlets, and, in case of setting "unsuitable" prices, the Russian subsidiary Apple sent emails to resellers with a request to change them. Also, compliance with recommended retail prices by resellers could be due to the provisions of contracts between Apple Rus and resellers, which could be terminated by Apple Rus at any time without explanation.


Notably, Apple Russia actively cooperated with FAS during the case and took the necessary measures to eliminate violations of the law and pursued a policy of preventing such violations in the future.

The Financial Times says Apple has three months to appeal. If it fails to reverse the ruling it could be fined up to 15% of sales.

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