ISLAMABAD: The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) is monitoring the ongoing sugar crisis and the reported cartelization in the country and vowed to take appropriate action for the benefit of the consumers if any indications of anti-competitive activities are found.
According to APP, CCP is all set to take decisive enforcement and policy actions in case of any illegal activities from the sugar lobbies.
It is worth noting here that, in 2021, CCP carried out several raids on Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA) and had imposed substantial penalties of Rs. 44 billion on PSMA and its member sugar mills for cartelization.
However, the action and follow-up penalties were challenged in the High Courts of Sindh and Punjab and in the Competition Appellate Tribunal (CAT), resulting in the withdrawal of the penalties. Meanwhile, the Appellate Tribunal has been dysfunctional since 14th July 2023 due to the expiry of the tenure of its Chairman whereas cases of sugar mills and other relevant vital cases are pending.
To deal with the pending cases at CAT, the government needs to appoint its Chairman as soon as possible.
CCP Measures for Consumers
CCP has taken proactive measures against cartelization in the sugar sector and believes in ensuring fair competition in the market. In addition, the commission acknowledges the due legal processes associated with judicial review and encourages the timely resolution of cartel cases for effective relief to consumers. Any delay in such issues would badly impact both consumers and the overall economy.
CCP is fully cognizant and vigilant in safeguarding consumers and promoting fair competition.
