Bunge committee wants competition law amendments expedited

DODOMA: THE Parliamentary Committee on Industries, trade, agriculture and livestock has called for fasttracking of the Fair Competition Act (FCC) amendments process for further enhancing fair playing ground.

The Committee’s Chairperson, Mr Deo Mwanyika, said it was time the law was amended to level the playing field for businesses and control counterfeits.

“I recommend that the FCC initiates the process to work on challenges under the current law so that we have in place a vibrant one which will build a level playing ground for the businesses,” he said.

He added that there were several avenues that if worked out would increase productivity in business and enhance fair trading.

He called upon the Ministry of Industry and Trade to ensure the process of making amendments is sped up. The Committee also called upon the FCC to control and monitor counterfeit goods in the local markets as they are a stumbling block to economic development and fair competition.

“The ministry must chart out the best ways to ensure that we work alongside President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision to ensure that our committee contributes to the economic development as well as a conducive investment environment to attract more investors,” said Mr Mwanyika.

On his part, Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade, Mr Exaud Kigahe, urged the FCC to fulfill their objectives fully so that it contributes to building a strong national economy and a strong private sector.

Responding to the committee, FCC Director General, Mr William Erio, said they have started the process for the amendment of the law.

The ultimate goal is to increase efficiency and productivity in service delivery and have in place a fair competition environment in the national economy.

Mr Erio said the commission is determined to promote and protect effective competition in trade and commerce and protect consumers from unfair and misleading market conduct.

The ultimate goal, he said, is to increase efficiency in the production, distribution and supply of goods and services to establish a market economy.

He said they have submitted to the government the proposed amendments so that they can be forwarded to relevant authorities for approval before the bill to that effect is submitted to Parliament.