Rwanda: Law No. 32/2012 relating to Competition and Consumer Protection including unilateral conduct regulation entered into force

On 12 November 2012, Law No. 32/2012 relating to Competition and Consumer Protection enters into force after its publication in the official gazette. The law prohibits the abuse of a dominant position by enterprises, defining such abuse as conduct that restricts market entry, prevents competition or eliminates competitors. Specific prohibited practices include imposing unfair prices, limiting production and engaging in exploitative behaviours that frustrate the benefits of competition. The regulatory body is authorised to investigate and impose sanctions on enterprises found to be abusing their dominant position, including ordering the sale of shares or assets to remedy the abuse. The law also provides for derogations to certain prohibitions if public benefits outweigh the anti-competitive detriments.