Rwanda: Cabinet approved Competition and Consumer Protection Policy 2023

On 11 September 2023, the Cabinet approved the revised Competition and Consumer Protection Policy 2023, superseding the 2010 policy. This revised policy aligns with national goals such as Vision 2050 and the National Strategy for Transformation (NST1), and integrates global trends and regional commitments, including those related to digital markets, green investments, and consumer protection in e-commerce. It addresses the complexities of market dynamics by establishing five pillars, promoting a competitive business environment, enhancing consumer protection, strengthening institutional frameworks, improving consumer education, and reinforcing enforcement mechanisms. Under the Policy, the Rwanda Inspectorate, Competition and Consumer Protection Authority (RICA) is tasked with regulating mergers and acquisitions while addressing challenges posed by the digital economy. It is responsible for handling complaints, conducting investigations, and enforcing competition-related sanctions in collaboration with relevant regulators. RICA must monitor market competition, identify regulatory and government barriers to competition, and work alongside sector-specific regulators and other government bodies. In terms of consumer protection, RICA must resolve overlaps between its mandate, the general consumer protection law, and sector-specific regulators. It also oversees consumer protection by regulating product quality, safety, and e-commerce-related matters.