Introduction
Following the COVID-19 pandemic ("the Crisis") and the
resultant disruption of the economy, the Federal Competition and
Consumer Protection Commission ("FCCPC" or "the
Commission") issued the Business Guidance Relating to COVID-19
on Business Co-operation ("the Guidance") to address
certain concerns on business co-operation and consumer rights in a
bid to mitigate the severe effects of the crisis.
Cooperation Among Businesses
Under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act
("FCCP"), businesses cannot enter into agreements that
prevent, restrict, or distort competition. However, the Commission
recognises that given the exceptional circumstances, businesses
might seek cooperation to meet the teeming demand for certain
essential products and services. Therefore, the Guidance exempts a
limited category of agreements contracted between businesses, from
the provisions of Section 59 of the FCCP. These agreements must be
solely for the purpose of:
