The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has introduced a reward scheme to encourage public cooperation in identifying cartels and business collusion.

Under this initiative, individuals who provide credible information about price-fixing and supply manipulation will receive rewards ranging from Rs200,000 to Rs2 million, with their identities kept strictly confidential.

Targeting Unfair Market Practices

In Pakistan, consumers frequently face artificial price hikes in essential commodities and services, shortages and poor-quality goods due to cartelization -- a practice where businesses illegally coordinate prices or reach mutual agreements and restrict supply to maximize illicit profits.

The CCP has emphasized that fair market competition ensures better prices and quality of goods and services for consumers, whereas collusion harms economic stability. It says it is necessary that all parties providing supplies in the market compete with each other to attract consumers, and not to collude and fix prices.

According to the Competition Act, 2010, any secret or public agreement among businesses to fix prices, control supply, or manipulate quality is a serious offence. The CCP has urged citizens and relevant stakeholders to play their part in dismantling such illegal networks by reporting suspicious activities.

How to Report Cartels and Claim Rewards

Anyone with evidence of businesses engaging in anti-competitive practices can report it to the Competition Commission via phone, email, or its official website. If the information leads to action against a cartel, the informant will receive a financial reward and be recognized as a national hero.

The CCP’s initiative aims to promote public participation in eliminating these “black sheep” from the market and fostering a transparent and fair business environment. This step is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s economy by ensuring fair competition and consumer rights protection.