The Gambia Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (GCCPC) has criticised the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority’s (PURA) decision to introduce price regulation on internet data services, warning it could harm consumers and stifle competition.

In a statement, the Commission expressed concern that the move comes at a time when increased competition among GSM operators had driven data prices to their lowest levels, offering relief to vulnerable consumers and small businesses.

“For many years, Gambians have faced some of the highest data prices in the sub-region with no regulatory intervention,” the Commission said.

“Only recently has open competition delivered affordability and innovation. Price regulation risks undermining these gains.”

While acknowledging concerns about network quality during the recent price war, the GCCPC argued that raising consumer prices through regulation unfairly penalises users instead of addressing structural and investment issues in the sector.

“The true test of consumer protection is how well it safeguards the most vulnerable, not how comfortably it serves the elite,” the Commission stressed.

It added that operators should compete responsibly, innovate, and reinvest in their networks, while regulators must enforce compliance with quality standards.

The GCCPC called on PURA to rescind the decision, warning it would otherwise challenge regulatory actions that undermine pro-competition and pro-consumer principles.