As abusive pricing and buying practices by dominant players continue to disadvantage SMMEs, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition has intervened and published draft regulations, in terms of the Competition Act, for public comment.
While it is a step in the right direction, the National Employers’ Association of South Africa (Neasa) has expressed some cynicism.
“It remains to be seen if government will, in fact, be able to implement them effectively and will have the courage to address the myriad obstacles that have left SMMEs floundering,” Neasa chief executive Gerhard Papenfus said.
The organisation is conducting a survey among SMMEs in order to obtain comment on the draft regulations and acquire input on other structural, legislative and implementation shortcomings of government, that are leaving them hamstrung and battling for survival.
