PNG ICCC Joins First Pacific Islands Network of Competition, Consumer, and Economic Regulators
The Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC) of Papua New Guinea has announced its membership in the newly established Pacific Islands Network of Competition, Consumer, and Economic Regulators (PINCCER). The ICCC is not only a member but has played a leading role in the formation of PINCCER, collaborating with the Fiji Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) and the PINCCER Secretariat, along with other Pacific regulators since 2023.
ICCC Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Paulus Ain, who led his team of experts to the inaugural PINCCER launching and conference in Fiji, described the event as a significant milestone. “It was a momentous occasion to see ICCC’s contribution alongside other Pacific Island nations come to fruition,” Mr. Ain said.
The creation of PINCCER emerged from discussions at the International Consumer Protection Enforcement Network (ICPEN) Conference held in Sydney, Australia, in 2023. The network was established to address the unique challenges faced by small market economies in the South Pacific region.
“The idea for this network originated from the need to protect consumers in the Pacific region, which was not adequately addressed during the ICPEN Conference,” Mr. Ain explained. “We realized there was no space or representation for us at the international level, which led to the creation of PINCCER. Australia and New Zealand provided significant support in establishing this network for Pacific Island economies.”
PINCCER aims to serve as a hub for regulatory authorities across the Pacific Islands, facilitating the exchange of ideas and collaboration to tackle challenges in competition, consumer protection, and economic regulation. According to Fiji Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) Board Chairman, Mr. Isikeli Tikoduadua, “The goal is to set the stage for more efficient, fair, and sustainable markets, benefiting all consumers in our diverse communities.”
Twelve Pacific Island nations are now members of this pioneering network, marking a new chapter in regional regulatory collaboration.
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