#JustIn: Competition watchdog to investigate Namib Mills, NPI

The Namibian Competition Commission (NaCC) has decided to initiate an investigation against Namib Mills and Namib Poultry Industry (NPI) for alleged refusal to supply certain poultry products to some micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

The commission received information alleging that Namib Mills and NPI are limiting and restricting market access for new entrants, specifically MSMEs by refusing to supply them with certain products, the NaCC said in a statement.

These products include soup packs, giblets, necks (bulk), hearts, gizzards, necks (Pre-pack), heads and feet, cleaned feet, liver tubs, mala, livers (bulk) and breast bone in and around Namibia. The information proposes that these products are reserved for more established and preferred clients, the NaCC said.

In addition, the information submitted to the commission further alleges that Namib Mills and NPI hold a dominant position in the relevant market.

The NaCC’s investigation aims to determine whether the conduct of refusal to supply certain poultry products to some MSMEs is one that contravenes the Competition Act.

As part of its investigation, the NaCC has resolved to conduct public consultations with all known MSMEs. The commission will be scheduling meetings in the coming days with all known MSMEs to get their valued input into the investigation, the NaCC said.