The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has also encouraged the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to consider banning the popular online marketplace Temu in the nation.
The call was triggered by two big groups in the business, the Pakistan Retail Business Council (PRBC) and the Chain Store Association of Pakistan (CAP), who put forward the issue that Temu is operating without authorization which can adversely affect shops and consumers in the country. Another platform, Shein, was also flagged as running in Pakistan without an official clearance, in another CCP letter dated August 22, 2025.
PRBC encourages the government to interfere with the activities of Temu to protect local businesses. The CCP has the power to raise issues; however, it lacks the power to block apps; that is subordinated to the PTA, which oversees internet access and use of applications. This has resulted in the case being referred to PTA to be evaluated and action may be taken.
Read more: Govt Removes Tax on Temu, SHEIN & AliExpress
The ruling by the PTA will impact greatly on the foreign online stores such as Temu. Although these apps offer numerous cheap products, the lack of regulation can harm local retailers operating on a small and medium scale. This case can establish a precedent in relation to weighing the choice of the consumers and the protection of the local firms.
Finally, the attitude of the regulatory bodies in Pakistan towards Temu might influence the future of the country towards the international online markets.
