The East African Community Competition Authority (EACCA) has taken a significant step in strengthening regional cooperation by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tanzania’s Fair Competition Commission (FCC).
The MoU is aimed at advancing competition policy and law within the East African Community (EAC) and fostering cross-border trade and regional integration.
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“Today, while respecting our jurisdictional independence, our two institutions are committing to collaborate in effectively implementing the East African Community Competition Act, 2006, which is aligned with the objectives of the EAC Customs Union and Common Market Protocols, through which, among other things, we protect market participants from anti-competitive business practices. With the signing of the MoU, we look forward to engaging in more comprehensive, profound, and fruitful exchanges and collaboration with our counterpart.” Said Ms. Lilian Mukoronia, the EACCA Registrar
It was signed in Arusha, Tanzania, and outlined the opportunities for collaboration between the two institutions in matters related to cross-border competition and consumer protection in the region. The agreement emphasizes information sharing during joint investigations to safeguard competition processes and protect consumers while respecting each other’s laws and policies.
Additionally, the MoU facilitates cooperation and coordination in conducting market inquiries and studies, and provides a platform for technical assistance, including staff training. The goal being to enhance the effectiveness of the EACCA and FCC in regulating competition and promoting intra-regional trade, contributing to sustainable economic growth in the region.
Mr. William Erio, the Director General of the FCC emphasized the shared bonds of Tanzania and the EAC. stating, “I commit FCC’s determination to work hand in hand with the EACCA to bring to life the cooperation initiatives outlined in the MoU, which will help bring ample development opportunities for businesses in Tanzania and the region, foster their innovations, and propel them to the forefront of the global market,”
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Under the agreement, the two institutions have established a working group responsible for implementing prioritized activities through annual work plans. Among their commitments, the institutions will review various complementary regulations and guidelines to ensure their suitability for implementation.
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