Pakistan’s CCP clears SALIC’s takeover of Olam Agri holdings

October 07, 2025 (MLN): The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has granted approval for the proposed acquisition of a controlling stake in Olam Agri Holdings Limited (Olam Agri) by the Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF).

The transaction entails the transfer of shares from Olam Group’s Singapore based subsidiaries Olam Agri Pte. Limited and Olam Holdings Pte. Limited to SALIC, in line with Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to enhance long-term food security and agricultural investments across global markets.

In Pakistan, Olam Agri has a diversified footprint, engaging in the origination, trading and processing of agricultural commodities, including edible oils, rice, cotton, rubber and timber.

Following a comprehensive Phase I review, the CCP determined that while Olam Agri maintains a notable presence in certain commodity segments, the acquisition will not create or strengthen a dominant position in any relevant market within Pakistan.

The Commission further observed that SALIC currently has no direct operational presence in the country, and the transaction effectively represents a shift from joint to sole ownership at the shareholder level.

According to the CCP’s assessment, Pakistan’s agricultural commodities sector remains dynamic and competitive, with several active traders and importers ensuring market balance.

Based on these findings, the CCP concluded that the proposed acquisition does not raise any competition concerns and will not substantially lessen competition in the relevant markets.

Consequently, the transaction has been authorized under the Competition Act, 2010, and the Competition (Merger Control) Regulations, 2016.

The approval reinforces Pakistan’s openness to foreign investment and shows the country’s commitment to maintaining a fair, transparent, and competitive market environment while facilitating strategic partnerships that support regional food security and trade integration.

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