For the next five years, through to 2030, the Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC) will regulate its mandate according to its newly launched Cooperate Plan, which was officially launched by Minister for Rural and Economic Joseph Lelang, at the APEC Haus on August 28th.
Alongside the launch was the unveiling of the refreshed logo identity and the upgraded website in setting out its strategic direction for strengthening consumer protection, promoting fair competition and supporting a more competitive, productive and efficient economy in the country.
The cooperate plan explains clearly what the ICCC wants for the next five years with its mandate and vision.
ICCC Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Roy Daggy said the Corporate Plan would guide the commission’s work over the next five years by setting out what it aims to achieve, how it will deliver its mandate and why its work matters to Papua New Guineans.
The ICCC’s mandate includes protecting consumers, ensuring markets are fair and competitive, and regulating industries where necessary.
Mr. Daggy said the commission’s responsibilities affect families, businesses and communities across the country, adding that the Corporate Plan would guide the ICCC in using its values of independence, expertise and integrity to deliver outcomes for consumers and the wider economy.
The commission’s vision is to promote the welfare of Papua New Guineans by ensuring competitive markets, protecting consumers, and regulating industries fairly and efficiently.
Its mission is linked to key national development priorities, including the Medium-Term Development Plan IV 2024-2027, the Development Strategic Plan 2020-2030, and PNG Vision 2050.
The Corporate Plan is built around four main goals.
The first is to protect consumers’ rights by expanding enforcement, improving complaint handling, and ensuring product safety.
The second is to ensure markets remain competitive by reviewing mergers, tackling cartel behaviour and addressing the abuse of market power.
The third is to regulate industries and prices where necessary to ensure essential goods and services remain affordable and reliable.
The fourth is to strengthen the ICCC as an independent and expert regulator while maintaining high levels of integrity, transparency and accountability and building trust among stakeholders.
Mr. Daggy said the four goals are supported by specific strategies and action plans intended to translate the commission’s priorities into practical activities.
One of the strategies is to expand the ICCC’s presence across all provinces through partnerships with provincial governments.
Mr. Daggy said the commission is also seeking to strengthen prosecutions against unfair traders and develop stronger competition law expertise.
Furthermore, the commission will also modernize its systems, improve transparency and strengthen inclusivity, particularly for women, disadvantaged groups and rural communities.
Mr. Daggy said the Corporate Plan was not simply a policy document, but a strategy focused on improving the welfare of consumers and supporting the wider economy.
He added that the ICCC would make decisions based on evidence, research and data rather than pressure, while assuring that the commission would consider the views of stakeholders in its decision making and ensure consumers’ welfare remains a priority.
The Corporate Plan is supported by technical assistance from the Private Sector Development Initiative through the Asian Development Bank, with backing from the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and the New Zealand Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).