FAS Algorithm Picks Up the Trail of Bid-Rigging Cartels
The Federal Antimonopoly Service has for the first time deployed artificial intelligence to detect collusion in public procurement. According to the office of Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Grigorenko, the technology has already helped open 12 cases.
The system in question is the Antikartel state information system. Another 31 investigations are underway, and 117 filings are being reviewed by regional offices. The algorithm flagged price inflation, in particular, in tenders for the maintenance of buildings at children's educational institutions and for major bridge repairs.
The agency has been deploying AI since 2026 as part of its digital transformation. The system analyzes large data sets and looks for both known collusion schemes and new ones. The machine's conclusions are double-checked by people. "AI does not replace specialists but enhances their capabilities," agency representatives explained.
Bona fide procurement participants can access a self-check service on Gosuslugi. It assesses tenders, determines the risk of involvement in a cartel, and provides recommendations.
Collusion deprives customers of the ability to choose the best offers and restricts competition, which is why digital tools are important for procurement transparency, Grigorenko's office emphasized.
