The Fair Competition Commission (FCC) has warned that the rapid growth of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in business could threaten market fairness and consumer interests if left unregulated.
The announcement coincides with the launch of Competition Week, leading up to World Competition Day on December 5.
Acting Director General of FCC, Khadija Ngasongwa, speaking in Dar es Salaam, said that while AI offers businesses efficiency and innovation, it also carries risks.
“AI has the potential to influence prices, limit choices, and create monopolistic tendencies in ways that are more complex and harder to detect than traditional practices,” she said.
The FCC stressed that Tanzania’s competition framework, guided by the Fair Competition Act No. 8 of 2003, continues to ensure markets remain open, competitive, and fair.
The Commission monitors anti-competitive agreements, abuse of market dominance, and company mergers.
Under the law, businesses planning transactions valued at TZS 3.5 billion or more must notify the FCC for review, a step designed to protect consumers and prevent unfair market concentration.
Ngasongwa reminded the public that the global competition movement began with a 1980 United Nations resolution establishing the UN Set of Principles and Rules on Competition, which underpins fair market practices worldwide.
This year’s theme, “Artificial Intelligence (AI), Consumers and Competition Policy),” highlights the urgent need for public awareness and vigilance.
The FCC called on citizens to stay informed about AI developments, understand their rights as consumers, and support policies that promote fair competition.
“Competition is not just about businesses—it directly affects consumers’ access to choices, fair prices, and quality services,” Ngasongwa said, urging Tanzanians to engage actively as markets transform in the digital age.
This edition of Competition Week sends a clear message: embracing innovation must go hand in hand with protecting consumer interests and ensuring fair, competitive markets for all Tanzanians.