CCP moving towards automation of complaint-handling mechanisms

ISLAMABAD: Chairman Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) Farid Ahmad Tarar Monday said the Commission is moving towards automation of complaint handling mechanisms and is developing guidelines for emerging sectors, including e-commerce, as part of efforts to modernize competition enforcement.

Speaking at an awareness session at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI), the Chairman said that fair competition is the foundation of a strong economy, adding that sustainable economic growth can only be achieved through transparency, equal market opportunities, and strict compliance with laws.

He warned that cartelization, deceptive marketing practices, and abuse of dominant market position harm both consumers and small businesses, stressing the need to promote a culture of voluntary compliance within the business community.

Tarar said CCP is strengthening its enforcement framework through modernization and digitalization, including the automation of complaint handling systems to enable online filing and improve transparency and efficiency. He noted that under Section 37, multiple complaint mechanisms are available for businesses and consumers seeking redressal.

Highlighting policy developments, the Chairman said CCP is working on updated guidelines for e-commerce and digital markets to address emerging challenges and safeguard consumer interests.

Providing institutional context, he noted that CCP was established in 2007 to promote fair competition, following earlier regulatory arrangements under the Monopoly Control Authority formed in 1970. He said economic reforms, privatisation, and the expanding role of the private sector necessitated a modern competition regulator.

He explained that competition law prohibits cartel formation, market division, price fixing, and manipulation of supply or demand, adding that abuse of dominance in any sector is subject to regulatory action. He further highlighted that deceptive marketing practices, misleading advertisements, and brand imitation create consumer confusion and harm legitimate businesses.

The Chairman also emphasized the importance of collaboration with stakeholders and strengthening advocacy initiatives to promote voluntary compliance.

He encouraged LCCI to establish a voluntary compliance regime within the Chamber and develop practical guidelines for its members, adding that CCP will continue to engage through targeted outreach and social media campaigns.

He noted that Pakistan’s stagnant exports, rising costs, and limited integration into global value chains require a stronger compliance culture and more competitive business practices.

The CCP Chairman led the Commission’s delegation at the session, which was attended by LCCI President Faheem-ur-Rehman Saigol, members of the senior management, the Executive Committee, and a large number of general body members.

Speaking on the occasion, LCCI President Faheem-ur-Rehman Saigol appreciated CCP’s outreach efforts and emphasized the need to strengthen linkages with the business community. He underscored the importance of regular engagement sessions and proposed formalizing cooperation through a memorandum of understanding (MoU). He noted that healthy competition is essential for a vibrant and sustainable economy.

Senior Vice President Tanveer Ahmad Sheikh and Vice President Khurram Lodhi also highlighted the importance of sustained engagement between CCP and the business community. They suggested holding regular advocacy sessions, including monthly interactions, and proposed the designation of focal persons to enhance coordination and collaboration between CCP and the Chamber.

The session was also attended by LCCI Secretary General Shahid Khalil, Executive Committee members including Irfan Ahmad Qureshi, Amir Ali, Mohsin Bashir Ali, Imran Saleemi, Muhammad Muneeb Monnoo and others.

The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, reflecting strong interest from participants and reinforcing the importance of continued dialogue between the regulator and the business community.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026