CCP extends deadline for private schools to respond to show-cause notices

The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has granted additional time to major private school systems to submit replies to show-cause notices issued over alleged anti-competitive practices, officials said on Wednesday.

The notices relate to possible violations of Section 4 of the Competition Act, 2010, which deals with abuse of dominant position.

The CCP is examining complaints that certain private schools compel parents to purchase branded uniforms, stationery, and other mandatory items exclusively from nominated vendors.

According to the Commission, several school systems sought extensions to file their responses.

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After considering the requests, the CCP extended the deadline for submission of replies until December 30, 2025, to ensure due process and provide all parties a fair and transparent opportunity to be heard. Some schools have already submitted their written responses.

The institutions that were issued show-cause notices include Beaconhouse School System, The City School, Headstart, Lahore Grammar School (LGS), Froebel’s, Roots International, Roots Millennium, KIPS, Allied Schools, Super Nova, Dar-e-Arqam, STEP School, Westminster International, United Charter School, and The Smart School, among others.

Once the replies are received, the CCP will schedule hearings where the concerned schools or their authorised legal counsel will be allowed to present their cases in accordance with the law.

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CCP Chairman Dr Kabir Ahmed Sidhu said the education sector was of critical public interest, directly affecting millions of households.

He reiterated the Commission’s commitment to promoting fair competition, protecting consumer welfare, and ensuring that proceedings are conducted in a transparent, impartial and lawful manner.