Competition Law at Lesotho
Here’s an overview of Competition Law in Lesotho:
🇱🇸 Competition Law in Lesotho
1. Legal Framework
Competition in Lesotho is primarily regulated by the Competition Act, 2010.
The Act aims to promote and maintain competition in markets, prevent anti-competitive practices, and protect consumer welfare.
2. Key Provisions
Prohibited Practices:
Anti-competitive agreements such as cartels (price-fixing, market allocation)
Abuse of dominant market position
Mergers and acquisitions that substantially lessen competition without approval
Merger Control:
Transactions that meet certain thresholds require notification and approval from the Competition Commission before completion.
3. Enforcement Authority
The Competition Commission of Lesotho is the main enforcement body responsible for investigating anti-competitive behavior, reviewing mergers, and promoting competition.
The Commission has the authority to impose penalties, issue cease and desist orders, and refer cases to the Competition Tribunal.
4. Sanctions and Remedies
Penalties for breaches may include administrative fines and orders to cease prohibited conduct.
Private parties can also seek damages through civil courts for losses caused by anti-competitive behavior.
5. Additional Notes
Lesotho’s competition law framework is influenced by regional developments, particularly from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Southern African Competition Commission (SACC), promoting harmonization of competition policies in the region.
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