Critical Analysis of Prohibition of Anti-Competitive Trade Practices in Ethiopia: The Case of Arbaminch Town, Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

In a free market context, trade competition signifies a state of affairs where in sellers compete with each other to attract buyers with a view to maximizing their sales, profits and market share. Trade competition laws and policies are among the tools that can be used to bring about efficient workings of markets and alleviate market failures. This research sought to explore prohibition of anti-competitive trade practices in Ethiopia in general and particularly in Arbaminch town, Southern Ethiopia. The research has employed doctrinal approach and the data collected were analyzed qualitatively. Both primary and secondary sources of data were used. The findings of the research indicated that there is lack of effective enforcement of the existing law in the study area. There are also anti-competitive trade practices remained uncovered by the law. The current trade competition law of the country needs revision. There is also a need to establish law enforcement bodies and independent adjudicative organs at regional level including in the study area.