Tariffs ‘threaten’ business competitiveness

THE Competition and Tariff Commission (CTC) has shifted its focus to tariff assistance in an effort to bolster local industry and enhance competitiveness, particularly for businesses that rely on imported raw materials.

This initiative is designed to support local producers who face high duties at the border, which often undermine the competitiveness of their products in the market.
“We are looking at promoting local industry so that they can become competitive through tariff assistance. This is crucial for local entities that produce goods domestically but rely on imported raw materials,” said CTC assistant director Jonathan Dube.

CTC’s tariff assistance program includes conducting technical assessments of affected businesses and making recommendations to the Finance ministry to reduce or eliminate duties on essential raw materials. The goal is to level the playing field for local industries and enable them to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.
“The duty charged at the borders is making them uncompetitive, and their goods are not becoming competitive. By reducing or removing duties, we can help local producers become more competitive and sustainable,” Dube explained.
He added that CTC would continue collaborating with the Finance ministry to ensure local producers receive the necessary support to succeed in both domestic and international markets.
Dube also highlighted the challenges posed by the increasing number of small to medium enterprises (SMEs) entering industries traditionally dominated by larger companies.
“That on its own gives a challenge, especially to entities like CTC, in that we have got industries fragmenting. It means regulation is also going to be affected, as you’re looking over so many sectors and so many players,” he said.
However, Dube noted that this fragmentation also brings benefits.
“On the flip side, it is good because it creates competition. The idea of competition is to give people choice. We do not want to be limited in terms of choice,” he added.
According to Dube, competition helps drive down prices and improves quality—outcomes that the CTC actively advocates for.
Additionally, recent amendments to the Competition Act are expected to enhance enforcement capabilities, enabling the CTC to take a more proactive stance in its regulatory responsibilities.
This will strengthen the commission’s role in promoting fair competition and supporting the growth of local industries.
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