Islamabad, 22 October 2024: The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) held the fourth hearing of its Phase II Merger Review regarding PTCL’s proposed acquisition of Telenor Pakistan (Private) Limited and Orion Towers (Private) Limited. The hearing was presided over by a CCP Bench, led by Chairman Dr. Kabir Ahmed Sidhu, along with Members Mr. Salman Amin and Mr. Abdul Rashid Sheikh.
This comprehensive review evaluates the potential concentration of market power and the overall impact on competitive dynamics within the telecommunications sector. During the recent hearing, submissions were made by Mr Asad Ladha, External Counsel for CM Pak (Zong), supported by Ms Sameen Qureshi. Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) was represented by Mr. Amer Shahzad, DG (Wireless – Licensing). PTCL, Wateen, Jazz, and Telenor were also allowed to present their comments.
A significant issue discussed was spectrum allocation, which is critical in determining market power for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). Post-merger, the combined entity (MergerCo) is projected to control 34.4% of the total allocated spectrum in the retail mobile telecommunications market.
In earlier hearings, legal representatives from PTCL, Wateen Telecom, and Jazz had also presented their views on the merger’s potential effects. CCP officials were present, including Director General Mr. Shahzad Hussain, Barrister Ambreen Abbasi, and others from the Legal and Merger Departments.
The hearing has been adjourned until October 24, 2024, as the review process continues.
