The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has approved SALIC’s acquisition of a controlling interest in Olam Agri Holdings Limited. The Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC) is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Saudi Public Investment Fund.
The transaction involves the transfer of shares from Olam Group’s Singapore-based entities—Olam Agri Pte. Limited and Olam Holdings Pte. Limited—to SALIC. According to the CCP, SALIC’s acquisition aligns with Saudi Arabia’s long-term strategy for ensuring food security.
Olam Agri operates in Pakistan through the trading and processing of agricultural commodities such as edible oils, rice, cotton, rubber, and timber. After conducting a detailed Phase I review, the CCP concluded that while Olam Agri has a notable presence in some markets, the transaction would not create or strengthen a dominant position in Pakistan.
The Commission observed that SALIC does not have direct business operations in the country. Therefore, SALIC’s acquisition represents a shift from joint to sole control at the shareholder level rather than a change in operational control.
The CCP also noted that Pakistan’s agricultural commodities sector remains diverse and competitive, with several domestic and international players actively participating in trading and imports. This competition ensures that the market remains open and balanced.
Based on its findings, the CCP determined that the transaction will not harm competition or reduce market diversity. The Commission, therefore, granted approval for SALIC’s acquisition under the Competition Act, 2010 and the Competition (Merger Control) Regulations, 2016.
The decision reflects the CCP’s continued focus on maintaining fair competition while encouraging foreign investment in Pakistan’s key economic sectors, including agriculture and food processing.
In other news read more about: CCP Approves Acquisition of Majority Stake In Euro Gas
