The Competition Commission of Brunei Darussalam (CCBD) has cautioned event organisers and vendors against price-setting practices at food festivals, popup markets and similar events, warning that such conduct may breach competition laws.
CCBD said requiring vendors to sell goods at certain price levels, including imposing minimum selling prices, may risk infringing Section 11 of the Competition Act.
The commission said such arrangements may amount to indirect price-fixing as they restrict vendors from independently determining prices and competing freely.
CCBD noted that competition among vendors benefits consumers through fair pricing, better value and wider choice.
Organisers were advised to avoid including terms such as minimum prices, recommended prices or other conditions influencing how vendors price goods.
The commission also encouraged organisers to educate participating vendors on compliance with competition laws and avoiding price coordination practices.Members of the public may report suspected price-fixing activities through the CCBD complaint portal at ccbd.gov.bn.
CCBD said it takes anti-competitive conduct seriously and will not hesitate to initiate formal investigations where necessary.