CCP fines 18 electric cable makers

ISLAMABAD: The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has passed an order, imposing a total penalty of Rs18 million on 18 electric cable makers for violating Section 10 of the Competition Act, 2010, a statement said on Thursday

The CCP in its statement said the said manufacturers were found guilty of the deceptive practice that involves hiding cash and/or cash coupons inside the packaging (bundles/coils) of their products to lure electricians into convincing/forcing consumers to prefer certain brands over the others.

The commission added that the manufacturers concealed this information or presence of cash/cash coupons from consumers.

The CCP said it conducted an inquiry on receiving information that many electric wire manufacturers were engaged in the aforementioned violation, but were not disclosing this on the labelling or other promotional material.

The practice only benefits the electricians, who generally open the packs, and deceives the end consumers, who ultimately pay for the value of the coupons but are unaware of it, it added.