Zambia

The CCPC is an independent statutory body with investigative, enforcement, and advocacy powers for both competition and consumer protection.

Section 8 prohibits agreements that prevent, restrict, or distort competition, including price-fixing, market allocation, and bid-rigging.

Vertical agreements that substantially lessen competition are prohibited, including resale price maintenance and exclusive dealing arrangements.

Section 16 prohibits abuse of dominant position, covering excessive pricing, predatory pricing, and exclusionary conduct.

Mandatory pre-merger notification for mergers and acquisitions meeting prescribed thresholds. The CCPC reviews within defined timelines and may impose conditions.

The CCPC has provisions for leniency but the programme is not yet widely utilised. Capacity building is ongoing.

The CCPC may accept undertakings from parties. Consent orders are used to resolve merger and conduct cases.

Fines of up to 10% of annual turnover. Imprisonment of up to 5 years for individuals. Additional penalties for non-compliance with CCPC orders.

No specific digital markets regulation. The Competition Act applies to all enterprises including digital businesses.

ZICTA (telecoms), ERB (energy), and the Bank of Zambia exercise concurrent regulatory powers. Coordination between sector regulators and CCPC is developing.

The CCPC has investigation powers including document requests and witness interviews. On-site inspection capabilities are developing.

Affected parties may seek remedies through the courts. Private competition litigation is uncommon in practice.

Active member of the African Competition Forum, COMESA Competition Commission, and ICN. Participates in UNCTAD capacity building programmes.

Active merger control in mining, banking, and telecommunications. Growing investigation of anti-competitive conduct in agricultural and retail sectors.