Islamabad: The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) is deep into the Phase II Merger Review of Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited’s (PTCL) proposed acquisition of Telenor Pakistan and Orion Towers. This critical review is chaired by Dr. Kabir Ahmed Sidhu, with Members Mr. Salman Amin and Mr. Abdul Rashid Sheikh, scrutinizing the impacts on market dynamics within the country’s telecommunications sector.

According to Competition Commission of Pakistan, the CCP’s evaluation focuses on the market power concentration, competitive dynamics, and potential outcomes of the merger. This process aims to maintain rigorous scrutiny to ensure the merger aligns with national economic interests and consumer protection standards.

During a recent session, the CCP entertained arguments from multiple stakeholders, including Transworld Associates, whose Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Asif Inam, accompanied by Legal Counsel Ms. Rabia Kiyani, advocated for both preventive and corrective measures based on international precedents from the UK, UAE, and KSA. These suggestions highlight the necessity for structural and behavioral remedies to preserve competitive conditions post-merger.

Representatives from Telenor Pakistan, including Vice President Ms. Advokat Anette Aarset and Counsel Mr. Shabbir Harianawala, defended the merger’s benefits, outlining how it could enhance service delivery and market efficiency.

The discussions also included input from other key telecom players such as Wateen Telecom and Jazz, reflecting the industry-wide implications of the transaction. The comprehensive review by the CCP has ensured that all viewpoints are considered, with senior officials and legal experts from the commission, like Barrister Ambreen Abbasi and Mr. Shahzad Hussain, facilitating a detailed examination of the issues raised.

The CCP has adjourned the hearings, with further sessions scheduled to continue the examination of this significant merger in Pakistan’s telecom industry.