CCS Consults on Proposed Changes to its Guidelines

(View Media Release in PDF)

The Competition Commission of Singapore (“CCS”) is seeking feedback on proposed changes to its guidelines. These guidelines are intended to outline the conceptual, analytical and procedural framework within which CCS will administer and enforce the Competition Act (Cap. 50B) (“the Act”).

2.         In conducting this comprehensive review of its guidelines, CCS has taken into account its experience in administering the various provisions of the Act over the last ten years. The key aims of the review are to provide greater clarity and detail where appropriate, as well as to streamline various processes. The proposed changes also reflect feedback given by stakeholders and take into account recognised current international best practice.

3.         The proposed changes seek to:

(a)          better reflect CCS’s current practice of assessing anti-competitive agreements, mergers and acquisitions, and abuses of dominance; 

(b)          simplify and streamline the process of filing notifications to CCS for guidance or decision; 

(c)          make the process of applying for leniency clearer and more efficient; and 

(d)          introduce a new Fast Track procedure for appropriate cases with a view to enable CCS to more effectively and efficiently enforce the Act.

4.         Competition law strives to level the playing field amongst businesses, promote innovation and productivity, which in turn benefits the Singapore economy, businesses and consumers. These proposed changes to the guidelines will make it easier for businesses, consumers and stakeholders to understand the various competition concepts. The streamlining and simplification of the various notification forms will save businesses both time and resources in providing information to CCS during the notification process.

5.         Making the leniency programme clearer and more efficient will foster greater competition compliance as well as facilitate the breaking up of cartels and eventually result in more competitive prices for business and consumers.  The introduction of the Fast Track Procedure provides an avenue for businesses which have been engaged in anti-competitive conduct to resolve their matters with CCS in a shorter period of time.

Public Feedback

6.         The consultation documents can be downloaded from the CCS website at www.ccs.gov.sg under the section "Public Register and Consultation" and the Government Online Consultation Portal at www.reach.gov.sg.

7.         The closing date for submission is 6 November 2015. Full details relating to the manner of response are included in the consultation document.

About The Competition Commission of Singapore

8.         CCS is a statutory board established under the Act on 1 January 2005 to administer and enforce the Act. It comes under the purview of the Ministry of Trade and Industry. The Act empowers CCS to investigate alleged anti-competitive activities, determine if such activities infringe the Act and impose suitable remedies, directions and financial penalties.

For more information, please visit www.ccs.gov.sg.

For media clarifications, please contact:

Ms Grace Suen
Assistant Director
Strategic Planning Division
Competition Commission of Singapore
Email: grace_suen@ccs.gov.sg
DID: 6325 8216 / 9835 860