Synthetic Intelligence (AI) holds the potential to rework market dynamics, but it surely additionally poses important dangers, together with the opportunity of facilitating cartel conduct by predictive algorithms, in accordance with Competition Fee of India (CCI) Chairperson Ravneet Kaur. In an unique interview with PTI, Kaur emphasised that whereas AI’s mere use shouldn’t be inherently anti-competitive, its manipulation to foster collusion may current severe regulatory challenges.
The CCI, tasked with safeguarding honest enterprise practices, has launched a complete examine on AI and its influence on competition, which is about to conclude by mid-2025. The investigation will delve into a variety of points, together with the function of AI in logistics and the broader implications of algorithmic decision-making available in the market.
Kaur highlighted the regulator’s give attention to fostering ecosystems that promote each innovation and transparency in algorithmic processes. “AI has the potential to help cartelisation by automating collusive conduct by predictive algorithms,” she acknowledged, noting that the CCI’s main aim is to make sure that AI operates inside frameworks of accountability whereas encouraging technological developments.
In response to rising considerations about AI’s function in antitrust issues, Kaur confirmed to the PTI that the regulator would handle these challenges by advocacy outreach and an applicable enforcement mechanism. The CCI, which has beforehand issued orders in opposition to know-how firms for alleged anti-competitive conduct, can be bolstering its capability to handle the complexities of the digital age.
As a part of its ongoing efforts, the CCI can be recruiting knowledge analysts, and additional enlargement of the Digital Markets Division shall be thought of as soon as ex-ante regulation measures take kind. These rules, geared toward preemptively addressing potential anti-competitive practices, will play a vital function in shaping the way forward for competition legislation within the age of AI.
The rise of huge tech and e-commerce platforms presents distinctive regulatory challenges attributable to their scale, intricate ecosystems, and speedy tempo of innovation. Nonetheless, Kaur assured that the CCI is addressing these points with a sturdy regulatory framework, drawing from world finest practices and fascinating with stakeholders throughout the sector.
In its annual report for 2023-24, the CCI revealed it had acquired 50 anti-trust complaints, initiated prima-facie investigations into 33 instances of alleged anti-competitive conduct, and authorized or disposed of 101 mergers and acquisitions.