CCP Greenlights Bestway Automotive's Acquisition of Al-Haj Automotive
The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has officially approved the proposed acquisition of Al-Haj Automotive (Private) Limited by Bestway Automotive (Private) Limited. This decision comes after a thorough review concluded that the transaction does not raise any competition concerns under the Competition Act, 2010.
Details of the Acquisition Proposal
According to a statement released on Saturday, Bestway Automotive submitted a pre-merger application on January 26, 2026, in compliance with Section 11 of the Competition Act, 2010. The transaction is based on an Asset Purchase Agreement that was executed on December 22, 2025, between the two merging parties.
Bestway Automotive is a private limited company incorporated in Pakistan and operates as a wholly owned subsidiary of Bestway Cement Limited, which is listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). The company has expressed its intention to assemble, market, and sell automobiles within Pakistan.
Al-Haj Automotive, the target company, is also a private limited company engaged in similar activities, including the assembly, marketing, and sale of vehicles such as sedans and SUVs, along with related spare parts.
Competition Assessment and Market Analysis
Following a Phase-I competition assessment, the CCP conducted a detailed analysis of the relevant market. The Commission determined that both the acquirer and the target currently have no production or market share in the defined automotive sector.
As a result, the transaction is not expected to lead to any increase in market concentration or alter the competitive structure of the industry. The CCP concluded that the proposed acquisition does not result in the creation or strengthening of a dominant position.
Furthermore, the Commission found that the acquisition is not likely to substantially lessen competition or impede market entry for other players in the automotive market.
This approval marks a significant step for Bestway Automotive as it expands its footprint in Pakistan's automotive industry, while ensuring compliance with national competition regulations.
