ISLAMABAD: (Web Desk) – The Competition Commission of Pakistan has approved the acquisition of majority shareholding in Ranipur Sugar Mills by Saakh Pharma Limited and United Ethanol Industries Limited following a Phase-I review.
Ranipur Sugar Mills is engaged in sugar production, related by-products, and power generation through its in-house facility. Saakh Pharma operates in the pharmaceutical and biological products sector, while United Ethanol Industries functions within ethanol and broader agribusiness-related industrial products.
During the review, the Commission noted that the transaction had already been completed before formal approval was obtained. It reiterated that prior approval is a legal requirement for all notifiable mergers and acquisitions. The companies involved have since submitted an undertaking to ensure compliance with competition laws in the future.
From a competition standpoint, the CCP classified the deal as a conglomerate merger, with no significant overlap in business operations and only limited vertical linkages between the parties.
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The Commission further observed that Ranipur Sugar Mills has a limited market footprint and that the transaction does not raise concerns regarding supply dependency or market dominance.
After assessing the structure and market impact, the CCP concluded that the acquisition is unlikely to create or strengthen a dominant position or significantly reduce competition in the relevant markets. The transaction was therefore approved under applicable competition law.
The decision reflects a broader trend of consolidation and diversification in Pakistan’s sugar and allied industries, particularly in value-added sectors such as ethanol and bio-based products. Regulators noted that such mergers can improve efficiency and resource utilization, provided they comply with competition safeguards.
The CCP reaffirmed its commitment to encouraging investment and business growth while ensuring fair competition and protecting consumer welfare.
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