THE Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) is partnering with the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) to strengthen cooperation in enforcing laws to protect consumer welfare and enhance economic efficiency for both countries.
A memorandum of understanding outlining the framework for bilateral coordination was signed last May 8 by PCC Chairman Michael Aguinaldo and KFTC Chairman Biung-Ghi Ju at the 2026 International Competition Network Annual Conference in Manila.
“The KFTC has been a long-standing partner of the PCC. By signing this MOU, both agencies institutionalize a stronger partnership to explore new areas of collaboration, signifying a mutual commitment to fostering fair and competitive markets in the Philippines and South Korea,” the PCC said in a statement.
The two agencies committed to exchange information, best practices, and experiences through staff coordination, subject to national laws, regulations, and confidentiality requirements.
“These include law-enforcement methods, emerging trends in enforcement activities, and other competition-related policies and regulations,” the PCC said.
The partnership agreement also outlines protocols for notifications regarding enforcement activities that may significantly affect the interests of either party, as well as the appointment of official liaisons to facilitate seamless communication.
The KFTC, established in 1981, is South Korea’s regulatory authority, acting as a “fair umpire” to ensure free competition and prevent the abuse of market dominance. It reviews mergers, investigates cartels and unfair trade practices, and regulates unfair terms and conditions.
The PCC enforces the Philippine Competition Act (Republic Act 10667) that promotes fair competition by prohibiting anti-competitive agreements, abuses of dominant position, and mergers that restrict market competition. It represents the Philippine government overseas regarding competition issues.