Pakistan

The Competition Commission of Pakistan is an independent statutory body with investigation, adjudication, and advocacy functions.

Section 4 prohibits agreements that have the object or effect of preventing, restricting, reducing, or distorting competition. Includes per se prohibitions on price-fixing, market division, output limitation, and bid-rigging.

Vertical agreements are covered under Section 4 where they restrict competition. The CCP applies a more lenient assessment to vertical restraints than horizontal agreements.

Section 3 prohibits abuse of dominant position, including unfair pricing, predatory practices, discriminatory conditions, and tying.

Pre-merger notification required where prescribed thresholds are met. The CCP reviews mergers to assess whether they substantially lessen competition.

The CCP has leniency provisions but the programme is not as well developed as in more mature jurisdictions. Practical use has been limited.

The CCP may accept commitments and undertakings during or in lieu of proceedings. Settlement practice exists but is not extensively formalised.

The CCP may impose penalties of up to PKR 75 million or up to 15% of turnover, whichever is higher. It has imposed significant penalties in cement and sugar cartel cases.

No specific digital markets competition legislation. The Competition Act applies to digital businesses generally.

The CCP coordinates with sector regulators including OGRA (oil and gas), PTA (telecommunications), and SECP (securities). Jurisdictional overlaps can arise.

The CCP has powers to enter premises, search, and seize documents with authorisation. It may require the production of information and attendance of witnesses.

Persons aggrieved by anti-competitive conduct may approach the courts. Private enforcement is possible but rarely pursued in practice.

The CCP cooperates with competition agencies regionally and internationally through the ICN, UNCTAD, and bilateral arrangements.

Notable enforcement in cement cartel (PKR 29 billion penalty), sugar, poultry, and LPG sectors. Increased merger review activity. Advocacy in healthcare and digital sectors.