Novartis company guilty of corruption

7.2.2018

Question for written answer P-000765-18
to the Commission
Rule 130
Stelios Kouloglou (GUE/NGL)

According to initial reports from the Greek judiciary that have now come to light, prosecutors are currently investigating serious corruption charges levelled against the Novartis company in Greece and directly involving ten politicians.

Tens of millions of euros have allegedly been paid in bribes in order to secure high prices for pharmaceuticals manufactured by Novartis. Given the pivotal role played by Greece in determining prices at European level, the tactics employed by Novartis have affected the price of medicines in other Member States also.

In view of this:

• 1.What steps will the Commission take to determine the extent of the harm, if any, suffered by the Member States?
• 2.What action will it take to prevent similar cases of corruption, unfair competition and internal market manipulation at EU level?