Competition Council suspends Aqari platform for investigation of possible violations

The Competition and Anti-Monopoly Affairs Council announced the suspension of the electronic Aqari platform for investigation of possible violations of the Competition Law.

The council stated in an official document that it had observed preliminary indications that users are required to complete real estate purchase and sale transactions through a single designated entity, and that financial commissions are imposed that could affect freedom of competition and equal opportunities in the market.

It also noted the granting of exclusive economic benefits to the company operating the platform, and the increase in financial and procedural burdens on citizens.

The council urged the Ministry of Justice to temporarily suspend the platform’s application until the investigation is completed and a final decision is issued regarding its compliance with the Competition and Anti-Monopoly Law No. 14 of 2010.

The document emphasized that the platform project was not presented to the council before its implementation, despite the potential impact on the real estate market and service delivery mechanisms.

The council said in its document: “The success of digital transformation is not measured merely by introducing technology into administrative procedures, but by its ability to uphold the principles of legality, transparency, competition, and the protection of citizens’ rights.”

The investigation background: the decision follows complaints from real estate dealers about restricted options and rising costs, amid the absence of clear mechanisms for monitoring the platform and ensuring transparency in its operations.