The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) on Monday briefed Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb on challenges related to promoting competition in the sugar sector and the causes of the recent sugar crisis.
CCP Chairman Kabir Ahmed Sidhu informed the minister that the body is preparing detailed recommendations to assist the Sugar Sector Reform Committee. He detailed the reasons for the sugar crises of 2008-09, 2015-16, and 2019-20, sharing the CCP’s findings and enforcement actions against cartelization in the sector.
Aurangzeb was also informed of the CCP’s 2021 order against the sugar cartel, noting it was remanded by the Competition Appellate Tribunal for rehearing. The CCP said it had formulated a comprehensive strategy for its expeditious disposal.
The finance minister assured full government support to the CCP for expediting court proceedings of pending cases and enhancing the institution’s operational capacity. He reaffirmed that a robust competition framework is essential for protecting consumer interests, ensuring market transparency, and sustaining economic growth.
The meeting also reviewed pending litigation, examined administrative and regulatory measures to stabilize the sugar market, and discussed proposals to strengthen CCP’s institutional capacity to promote economic efficiency, protect consumers, and ensure a transparent, competitive business environment.