ISLAMABAD: The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) recently held an interactive session with the Chainstore Association of Pakistan (CAP) aimed at strengthening self-regulation and promoting adherence to Competition Law, particularly in combating deceptive marketing practices.

The session was led by Ms. Bushra Naz Malik (Member, CCP), alongside senior officials including Mr. Shahzad Hussain (Director General) and Mr. Qasim Khan (Senior Joint Director). CAP representatives included Mr. Tariq Mehboob (Co-Founder and Patron-in-Chief), Mr. Asfandyar Farrukh (Co-Founder and Chairman), and Mr. Ahsen Mahmood (Senior Vice Chairman).CCP conducts advocacy session with Chainstore Association of Pakistan (CAP)

During the session, Ms. Malik emphasized the CCP’s commitment to fostering fair competition across various sectors, announcing that sector-specific guidelines will soon be introduced to enhance compliance within the retail industry. She also highlighted the CCP’s focus on raising awareness and building capacity among stakeholders, including participants in the retail sector, regarding Competition Law and compliance.

Mr. Mehboob noted CAP’s significant economic impact, representing over 150 retail businesses that generate more than PKR 2000 billion in annual revenue. He stressed the challenges faced by CAP members and the need for greater awareness of anti-competitive practices, such as deceptive claims and misleading discounts, to avoid financial penalties and protect their reputations.

Mr. Farrukh underscored the importance of training and awareness initiatives led by the CCP, which would assist CAP members in aligning their business strategies and practices with Competition Law.

Both the CCP and CAP agreed to maintain their partnership to promote a competitive and compliant retail environment, benefiting both the economy and consumers.