FTC commemorates World Competition Day |05 December 2023
The Fair Trading Commission, falling under the aegis of the Ministry of Finance, National Planning and Trade, being the custodian of the Fair Trading Act 2022, has been celebrating World Competition Day alongside other Competition Authorities through the initiative brought forth by CUTS International (Consumer Unity & Trust Society) since December 5, 1980.
“The commemoration of this day is an advocacy and education effort which is in line with its mandate, and that is, to promote, maintain and encourage competition among enterprises with the aim of ensuring that enterprises of all sizes have the opportunity to participate equitably in the marketplace.
Such an occasion also encourages the Commission to review its achievements in regards to maintaining a fair and well-balanced competitive process while enabling all enterprises to compete aggressively for consumers in their respective markets.
To mark this event, the Commission organised outreach activities simultaneously on Mahé and La Digue on Friday December 1, under the theme ‘Fer sa ki zis, ganny trete zis’ (Act fairly, be treated fairly).
Fairness in business activities can be rationalised in two dimensions. It firstly relates to the work that the Commission undertakes in the economy to ensure that all players in various markets can participate equitably and secondly, it concerns the interaction of businesses themselves in the marketplace to ensure compliance to the Fair Trading Act 2022. While it is a business’ right to be treated fairly, it is also their responsibility to act fairly, thus fostering a healthy economic environment based on quality, price, and innovation rather than unfair practices.
The World Competition Day celebrations therefore aim to enlighten businesses, stakeholders and the general public on competition benefits and the various anti-competitive practices, promote fair competition among businesses and provide valuable insights into the work of the Commission.
To this end, a robust and inclusive competition policy serves as the cement that binds and supplements other efforts which will bring about the maximum long-term benefits for consumers, enterprises and the economy as a whole.
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