Is TEMU getting banned in Pakistan?

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) received a complaint from the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) after the local business community filed its request for a ban on a popular e-commerce website, Temu.

Reports indicated that CCP had received submissions from the Chain Store Association of Pakistan (CAP) and the Pakistan Retail Business Council (PRBC), expressing concerns regarding Temu’s unregulated operations in Pakistan. They also highlighted the threat to local businesses posed by the e-commerce platform.

The local business entities asserted that Temu and Shein are operating in Pakistan without obtaining regulatory approval.

In the complaint, PRBC called for the imposition of a ban on Temu’s business, stating that it would have adverse impacts on local retailers and consumers.

In its correspondence to PTA, the competition commissioner stated that banning mobile applications listed on Google Play Store and similar platforms is outside its remit.

CCP stated it enters PTA’s arena to regulate and prohibit access to online portals in accordance with existing laws.

“In light of the above, the case is hereby referred to the PTA for further appropriate action, if necessary,” stated the CCP letter.

Finally, the final decision as to whether or not a ban should be imposed on Temu will be made by the PTA after considering all the factors.