The Competition Appellate Tribunal dismissed ten long-pending appeals filed by several banks and the Pakistan Banks Association, backing the Competition Commission of Pakistan’s ruling.

The appeals challenged the CCP’s April 2008 order and the Appellate Bench decision dated 10-06-2009. Both had found the banks guilty of working together while introducing an Enhanced Savings Account.

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According to the CCP, the coordinated move distorted competition and created unfair conditions, especially for depositors of smaller banks. This was declared a violation of Section 4 of the Competition Ordinance, 2007.

The CCP imposed a penalty of Rs30,000,000 on the Pakistan Banks Association. It also fined Habib Bank Limited, Allied Bank Limited, MCB Bank Limited, United Bank Limited, Saudi Pak Bank Limited, Atlas Bank Limited and National Bank Limited Rs25,000,000 each.

After hearing detailed arguments, the Tribunal rejected all appeals through a short order, confirming the penalties. Detailed reasons for the decision are expected later.

The ruling is seen as a major milestone for the Competition Commission of Pakistan. The ESA case was its first major enforcement action after the Commission was formed.

Officials say the outcome shows strong follow-up on long-running legal cases. Through reforms and active litigation management, the CCP has resolved more than 70 per cent of its pending cases.

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Commenting on the verdict, Dr Kabir Ahmed Sidhu said “the verdict reinforces the principle that justice may be delayed but cannot be avoided,” adding that no organisation can escape accountability forever.

This decision sends a strong message to big banks. Regulators are showing long-term commitment. Customers may feel more protected by competition laws. The case also warns against collective price-setting.