ISLAMABAD – Fining companies for misleading advertisements is a common practice as it protects consumers from false claims, ensures fair competition by preventing dishonest advantages, and reinforces trust in the market.
In this regard, the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) imposed fines totaling Rs. 1.007 billion on several giants involved in anti-competitive behavior across multiple sectors in the last fiscal year. Officials issued 12 key enforcement orders, targeting businesses operating in sectors such as fertilizer, poultry, automobiles, pharmaceuticals, real estate, hygiene, food, paints, and education.
Companies Fined for Misleading Ads
| Company Name | Fine Amount |
|---|---|
| Unilever Pakistan | Rs. 135 million |
| FrieslandCampina Engro Pakistan | Rs. 75 million |
| Kingdom Valley | Rs. 150 million |
| Al-Ghazi Tractors | Rs. 40 million |
| Hyundai Nishat Motors | Rs. 25 million |
| 3N Lifemed Pharmaceuticals | Rs. 2 million |
| British Lyceum | Rs. 5 million |
| Diamond Paints | Rs. 5 million |
According to officials, the commission strengthened its enforcement framework by streamlining hearings and reducing procedural delays, a move that has accelerated case resolutions and improved overall regulatory impact.
Out of 12 cases decided, eight were related to deceptive marketing tactics. Three dealt with cartelization and price-fixing. One involved a jurisdictional issue concerning trademark misuse, addressed on the directive of the Lahore High Court.
CCP fined six urea manufacturers and their trade association, the Fertilizer Manufacturers of Pakistan Advisory Council (FMPAC), a combined Rs. 375 million for engaging in coordinated price-fixing. Each company was fined Rs. 50 million, while the association was fined Rs. 75 million. Another major penalty, worth Rs. 155 million, was imposed on eight poultry hatcheries for colluding to fix prices of day-old broiler chicks.
Diamond Paints slapped with Rs5 million fine for deceptive marketing
