The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) will hold an open hearing on August 27 to examine competition-related concerns in the real estate sector, including misleading advertisements, hidden charges and inaccurate claims regarding project approvals.
The commission has invited consumers, investors, developers, builders, real estate professionals, industry associations and other stakeholders to share their experiences and concerns directly. The hearing follows complaints received by the CCP regarding potentially deceptive and anti-competitive practices in the property market.
Focus on Misleading Property Claims
According to the CCP, information about project approvals, property features, charges and other important details can significantly influence investment decisions. The regulator warned that consumers may face substantial financial losses when they invest based on false, incomplete or misleading information.
Under Section 10 of the Competition Act, 2010, deceptive marketing practices are prohibited, including the distribution of false or misleading information that may harm consumers or competing businesses.
The CCP has previously conducted inquiries and taken enforcement action against deceptive marketing practices in the real estate sector.
Stakeholders Invited to Share Concerns
The commission said wider stakeholder participation is now important to understand market practices and identify broader competition concerns affecting both consumers and businesses.
The hearing will be conducted under Section 29(c) of the Competition Act, 2010, which allows the CCP to hold open hearings on matters affecting competition. Information and concerns shared during the session will be considered as the commission develops its recommendations and position on the sector.
The hearing is scheduled for August 27 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the CCP office in ISE Towers, Jinnah Avenue, Islamabad. Registration is mandatory, with the deadline set for August 25.
The initiative could increase scrutiny of real estate marketing practices in Pakistan and encourage greater transparency in how property projects, approvals, prices and investment claims are presented to buyers and investors.
