The Chairperson, Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP), Ms. Rahat Kaunain Hassan, has said that today is a historic day for the strengthening of a robust competition law in Pakistan. President Asif Ali Zardari has signed the Competition Bill into law, formalizing its elevation into an Act of Parliament, and rendering the Competition Commission of Pakistan a statutory body, which will enable the Commission to be back in action with full force. The Commission will now stand on firmer ground. By taking action without delay, the Government has provided us the legislative backing necessary to dispel all uncertainties and apprehensions over the law. We appreciate and recognize the support extended by the government in this regard. This will strengthen the institution and ensure its sustainability. The transition from the temporary to the permanent phase has successfully been achieved. As an organization, we have been facing numerous legal challenges in the courts of Pakistan, questioning our constitutionality. This day onward, such challenges cannot impede our work any longer. The Competition Commission was conceived to promote a competitive and fair economic playground for the corporate sector, while securing economic efficiency and protecting consumers from anti-competitive behaviour. The Commission can now move forward in pursuing its mission to promote and foster a dynamic and level economic playing field. In order to better achieve this mission, it is our hope at the Commission that other pending matters such as the appointment of the Members of the Commission and constitution of the Appellate Tribunal will be resolved in a timely manner, and importantly that the Government will extend its full support in helping us in achieving financial autonomy. This momentous democratic achievement would not have been possible without the dedication and support of various actors, all of whom I thank. I would like to highlight the immensely positive role undertaken by the media in communicating to the public the importance of a strong competition regime in Pakistan. The Commission is hopeful for the media’s continued, unflinching support. I am also very grateful for the hard work and dedication invested by our team at the Commission. As a constitutionally-legislated statutory body, we at the Commission renew our commitment to promote and create a vibrant and equitable, economic playground, with an emphasis on transparency and fair-play.
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