The event was graced by Shri Harsh Malhotra, Minister of State in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, who delivered the Keynote Address, and Smt Ravneet Kaur, Chairperson, CCI, who presented the Special Address at the Inaugural Session.

Minister Emphasises Role of Competition Law in India's Economic Growth In his Keynote Address, Shri Harsh Malhotra highlighted India’s strong economic trajectory and the crucial role of competition law in ensuring a level playing field in markets. He underscored the significance of the MSME sector, which contributes:

80% of manufacturing output 45% of exports 30% of India’s GDP He stressed the importance of safeguarding MSMEs and ensuring they have fair opportunities to compete and innovate. Commending CCI’s role in curbing abusive practices by dominant enterprises, he called for real-time market monitoring and a collaborative approach to regulation, encouraging:

Self-regulation and compliance, rather than excessive enforcement. Stakeholder engagement, including industry associations, to incorporate diverse perspectives. Youth participation in policy discussions, bringing fresh ideas into regulatory frameworks. He further asserted that fair competition is not just a legal or economic necessity but a national responsibility, reinforcing the Ministry of Corporate Affairs’ (MCA) vision of fostering an environment where businesses and consumers thrive in a dynamic and fair marketplace.

Chairperson CCI Highlights the Intersection of Innovation and Competition Delivering the Special Address, Smt Ravneet Kaur, Chairperson, CCI, spoke about the evolving regulatory landscape in response to technological advancements and complex market structures. She emphasised that:

Innovation and competition must coexist, ensuring fair and open markets. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a key force shaping modern markets, requiring regulators to stay ahead of challenges like algorithmic collusion and hidden anti-competitive behaviour. Market Studies play a pivotal role in proactive regulation, offering insights into market structures, business models, and competitive dynamics. Discussing the Competition Amendment Act, 2023, she highlighted its role in adapting to new challenges, ensuring a balance between enforcement and market-friendly resolutions. She also provided an overview of regulatory developments in antitrust enforcement and mergers in 2024, reaffirming CCI’s commitment to fair competition, market integrity, and efficient enforcement.

Conclusion The 10th National Conference on Economics of Competition Law concluded on a highly insightful note, reinforcing the importance of fair competition in driving economic growth. Participants acknowledged the CCI’s pivotal role in shaping India’s competitive markets, ensuring consumer protection, and fostering innovation in an evolving digital economy.