The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has granted approval for the
acquisition of a 50 percent shareholding in M/s. Fatima Euricom Rice Mills (Pvt) Ltd by M/s. Euricom
S.P.A, a leading agribusiness entity based in Italy. This acquisition, under the Share Purchase Agreement, represents a major advancement in
attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) to Pakistan, as global agribusiness leaders increasingly
recognize the country’s untapped agricultural potential. Euricom S.P.A, with a global mission in agribusiness, is renowned for its expertise in the farming,
processing, and trading of rice products across international markets. By acquiring a substantial
stake in Fatima Euricom Rice Mills, a Pakistan-based company engaged in paddy rice procurement
and processing, Euricom S.P.A aims to tap into Pakistan’s rich agricultural potential. The
collaboration is set to further enhance Pakistan's rice export capacity, allowing the country to
expand its footprint in the global rice trade. The CCP's Phase I competition assessment of this merger highlights the substantial economic
benefits of the proposed transaction. Through thistransaction, the inflow of capital reflects growing
investor confidence in Pakistan’s economic prospects and demonstrates the importance of a robust
merger clearance regime in facilitating international business ventures. The CCP identified the relevant product market as the ‘cultivation, processing, and packaging of
Basmati Rice.’ Although Fatima Euricom Rice Mills has not yet commenced operations, it is set to
have an operational capacity of 30,000 tons. The transaction is expected to promote healthy competition within the industry, thereby fostering
growth and creating opportunities for new entrants.
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