Malaysia strengthens competition regulator with expanded powers to tackle cartels
Amendments to the Competition Act 2010 give the Malaysia Competition Commission new investigative tools, settlement options and authority over trade associations.
Recent changes to the Competition Act 2010, approved in the Competition Commission (Amendment) Bill 2026, equip the Malaysia Competition Commission with stronger enforcement capabilities. Chairman Tan Sri Idrus Harun highlighted new investigative powers, a settlement framework that can cut penalties by up to 40 percent, and a clear appellate route. The law now defines trade associations as enterprises, enabling MyCC to hold them accountable for facilitating cartel conduct.
Section 11A grants mandatory authority to collect data from businesses during market reviews, while Sections 64A and 64B protect and reward informants. Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said the reforms will let MyCC study industries and advise policy, addressing increasingly complex anti-competitive behavior.
Why it matters
The reforms give Malaysia stronger tools to curb anti-competitive practices, protecting consumers and market fairness.
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