Competition Commission Finalises Poultry Market Inquiry Terms

Posted 30 September 2025 Written by Acts Online
Category Trade

Brought to you by SA Legal Academy: The Competition Commission has finalised the terms of reference for a market inquiry into the poultry industry, following the initial draft released in February 2024.

In terms of section 43B(1) of the Competition Act, No. 89 of 1998, the Commission has published the final scope for the Poultry Market Inquiry (PMI). This regulatory intervention is designed to complement the 2019 Poultry Sector Master Plan by identifying market features that may impede, distort, or restrict competition across the entire value chain, from genetic stock to retail distribution.

The inquiry’s overarching objectives include assessing:

  • The structure of the poultry value chain, specifically the production of day-old chicks, feed supply, and processing facilities;
  • The level of market concentration and the nature of competition at various levels of the supply chain;
  • Barriers to entry and the participation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and firms owned by historically disadvantaged persons (HDPs); and
  • Price outcomes, price transparency, and the impact of market dynamics on consumers.

The formal commencement of the inquiry will be announced within 20 business days of the gazette publication. In accordance with the Competition Act, No. 89 of 1998, the Commission must complete the inquiry and publish a final report within 18 months of the commencement date.

What this means for you, your business, or your clients

  • For yourself: No direct individual obligations; impact is limited to maintaining professional oversight of the regulatory timeline and the Commission’s use of investigative powers.
  • For your business: Firms operating within the poultry supply chain, including feed suppliers and retailers, must prepare for mandatory information requests and potential summonses as the Commission exercises its powers under Chapter 4A of the Act.
  • For your clients: Advise clients in the agricultural and retail sectors to conduct internal compliance reviews and prepare formal submissions to the Commission to address specific market features or competitive constraints during the 18-month inquiry period.

Originally published at https://legalacademy.co.za/news/read/poultry-market-inquiry-terms-of-reference-finalised

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