The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has received a request from the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) to consider Temu banned in Pakistan, one of the fastest-growing e-commerce platforms in the country. The request follows complaints from the Pakistan Retail Business Council (PRBC) and the Chain Store Association of Pakistan (CAP), both of which raised concerns over Temu’s impact on domestic retailers.
Retailers Push Back Against Temu
According to an official CCP letter dated August 22, 2025, PRBC and CAP argued that Temu, along with Shein, operates in Pakistan without formal regulatory approval. They claimed that Temu’s practices could create unfair competition, disrupt the retail market, and harm local businesses as well as consumers.
The PRBC specifically requested the government to restrict Temu’s activities, warning of long-term risks if foreign platforms continue to expand without oversight.
In its response, the CCP clarified that it has no direct authority to impose Temu banned in Pakistan. On mobile apps under the Competition Act of 2010. Instead, it forwarded the matter to PTA, the body responsible for regulating apps and online services under Pakistani law.
“In view of the above, the matter is hereby forwarded to the PTA for further necessary action, if deemed appropriate.” The CCP wrote in its letter.
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The final decision now rests with PTA, which can choose to ban Temu outright or impose restrictions. The move highlights the growing tension between global e-commerce giants and local retailers who feel threatened by unregulated platforms.
While Temu has become a buyer favorite for its low prices and wide product variety. Retailers argue that unchecked expansion could weaken Pakistan’s retail ecosystem. The coming weeks will determine whether PTA takes decisive action or allows Temu to continue operating in the country.
