In 2017, the Commission published a draft Code of Conduct for Competition in the Automotive Industry (the Code) for public consultation.
The Code sought to address concerns relating to competition and inclusivity within the automotive aftermarket industry. The Commission received numerous submissions from interested stakeholders, including a submission from SAIA.
In early 2018, the Commission again consulted stakeholders regarding evolved considerations on the Code, based on submissions received. This culminated in the development of a revised Code. Both versions of the Code were drafted on the basis that the automotive industry would agree to the Code voluntarily. SAIA resubmitted its initial comments in the second round of public consultations on the Code.
In 2019, the Commission decided to abandon the Code and to establish a guideline instead. The new Guideline for Competition in the South African Automotive Aftermarket Industry (the Guideline) was published on 6 February 2020 for public consultation. It provides practical guidance for the automotive industry, with the aim of transforming the automotive aftermarket and encouraging competition through greater participation of small businesses as well as historically disadvantaged groups. The Guideline is not binding on the Commission, the Competition Tribunal or the Competition Appeal.
Below, is a summary of key guidelines/principles provided in the Guideline:
SAIA is consulting its members on the Guideline and will submit comments to the Commission by 16 March 2020.
