Competition Comm cautions businesses against unfair practices amid coronavirus pandemic

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) on Sunday cautioned businesses against indulging in unfair trade practices amid the coronavirus pandemic that has caused disruptions in supply chains.

At the same time, the watchdog has provided an assurance to companies that coordinated activities and joint arrangements during this time for the purpose of business continuity would be taken into consideration in case there is a complaint against them in the future.

The CCI keeps a tab on unfair business practices in the market place and has powers to take action against erring entities, including imposition of penalties.

In an advisory on Sunday, the regulator said the Competition Act has in-built safeguards to protect businesses from sanctions for certain coordinated conduct, provided such arrangements result in increasing efficiencies.

"These provisions will inform the decisions of the Commission. However, only such conduct of businesses which is necessary and proportionate to address ...