The Competition and Fair Trading Commission (CFTC) has expressed optimism that the Commission`s complaint system will be improved following launch of a project called “Technical Assistance in the Enhancement of Competition and Consumer Protection Regulation in Malawi.”

Speaking during launch of the European Union-funded project in Lilongwe, CFTC Director of Consumer Affairs Lewis Kulisewa said the two year technical assistance programme will help the Commission to improve how it processes its data.

According to Kulisewa, CFTC is facing a challenge of acute regulatory gaps governing the enforcement of competition and consumer protection law and that the project will enable compliant of the already existing laws.

Kulisewa singled out that enhanced advocacy and awareness on competition and consumer protection law and policy, through stakeholder sensitization activities are some of the key expected outputs of the project.

And on his part, the acting Head of Cooperation and Team Leader for Economic Cooperation and Public Sector at EU, Jose Navarro said the project will, among other sectors, help enhancing competition and promoting fair trading practices.

“The project will support the Commission`s implementation of legal, regulatory and systems reforms that will contribute to enhancing competition and promoting fair trading practices in the country,” said Navarro.

Meanwhile, Secretary in Ministry of Trade Christina Zakeyo said the digitalisation of the Commission is a milestone to the country`s economic development.

“It is my expectation that the automation project we are launching today will lead to substantial improvements in the delivery and accessibility of the Commission’s services.

“This support continues to be, very instrumental in the socio-economic development of the country,” said Zakeyu.

Funds about K240 million will be used for the 24 month project.