CCP flags rising concerns in rapidly expanding digital economy

January 14, 2026 (MLN): The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has highlighted the growing competition challenges arising from the rapid expansion of digital platforms, big data, and algorithm-driven business models.

It also stressed the need for strong and effective enforcement to ensure fair competition and innovation in digital markets.

These issues were discussed during a lecture titled “Competition Concerns in the Digital Economy” hosted by CCP under its ongoing Lecture Series on Competition Law, according to a press release issued.

The lecture was delivered by Dr. Amber Darr, Lecturer in Competition Law at the University of Manchester, UK, and External Expert at CCP’s Centre of Excellence in Competition Law (CECL).

Dr. Darr examined how the increasing role of digital platforms, network effects, and data-driven strategies is transforming market dynamics.

She explained key characteristics of digital markets, including increasing returns to scale, market tipping, data-driven market power, and the risks of algorithmic collusion.

The lecture also addressed the challenges faced by competition authorities in defining relevant markets and assessing dominance in zero-price and innovation-led environments.

Referring to landmark European Union cases involving major technology companies such as Google, Apple, and Amazon, Dr. Darr highlighted issues related to abuse of dominance, tying and bundling practices, unfair trading conditions, and the evolving approach to vertical agreements in digital markets.

She further placed Pakistan’s digital economy in a regional and global context, emphasizing the importance of effective competition enforcement for fostering fair and innovative markets.

The session was attended by CCP officers ranging from Management Executives to Director Generals, who actively engaged in discussions on regulatory and enforcement challenges.

The interactive exchange reflected CCP’s continued commitment to capacity building and strengthening competition law enforcement in response to the rapidly evolving digital economy.

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