Windhoek – The Namibian Competition Commission (NaCC) has finalized its investigation into Namib Mills regarding allegations of the company’s refusal to supply poultry products to small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Complaints against Namib Mills included accusations of denying SMEs access to chicken liver, gizzards, meat, eggs, and chicken necks, citing a permanent buyer for these products.
According to Namibia Press Agency (NAMPA), In a recent exclusive interview with Nampa, NaCC analyst Lovisa Nghishe stated that the investigation is complete and has been submitted to the commission board for decision-making. However, she refrained from revealing specific recommendations in the report. Nghishe mentioned that once the board finalizes its decision, the investigation results will be made public. She also highlighted ongoing concerns about high poultry pricing, noting that the commission will present a determination to the board for approval, though the timeframe for this report’s release remains unspecified.
The NaCC’s research process adheres to academic principles, and this investigation focused on Namib Mills’ alleged refusal to supply poultry products to SMEs. No exact date for the public release of the investigation results has been set.
Nghishe urged SMEs to report instances of unfair competition to the NaCC and emphasized the importance of SMEs educating themselves about competition laws. This knowledge is crucial for advocating competition awareness and understanding unfair market practices.
Additionally, NaCC Senior Researcher Taimi Amunkete revealed that the commission conducted a study on the private health sector this year. The findings from this medical investigation have also been handed over to the commission board, with further details to be communicated in due course. The study aimed to understand the sector’s operations, assess the commission’s stance following the NACC/Namibian Association of Medical Aid Funds case, and identify cost drivers in the sector.
The NaCC has embarked on two new studies: one reviewing merger notification thresholds and filing fees, and another assessing the impact of a 2017 merger between two major players in the piggery market. These studies aim to ensure appropriate merger thresholds, revised filing fees aligning with current economic conditions, and to evaluate market competition and the role of smaller producers post-merger.