As part of this ongoing engagement, SAIA participated in the 20th Annual Competition Law, Economics & Policy Conference, hosted by the Competition Commission of South Africa on 3–4 September 2026 under the theme “Competition Policy for Structural Transformation: Building Inclusive, Resilient and Competitive African Markets.”

The conference brought together competition authorities, government, industry and academia to discuss how competition policy can support more inclusive, resilient and competitive markets.

Monitoring developments relevant to the industry

Discussions explored the relationship between competition law and industrial policy, including the balance between strengthening domestic productive capacity and preventing the entrenchment of market power. The conference also considered pro-competitive regulatory reform and the removal of regulatory barriers that may affect market entry, investment, and participation.

These developments are relevant to the insurance industry, as regulatory and competition frameworks can influence market structure, innovation, investment, and businesses’ ability to compete and provide products that meet changing consumer needs.

The role of competition policy in supporting economic resilience and affordability was another key focus, with discussions examining issues such as market concentration, supply-chain disruptions, and conduct that may contribute to higher consumer costs.

Keeping pace with emerging competition issues

The conference also addressed competition agency effectiveness and cross-border merger review, highlighting the importance of regulatory cooperation and the practical challenges of transactions spanning multiple jurisdictions.

Emerging issues featured prominently on the second day, including artificial intelligence, data and digital markets, and the use of analytical tools and data to strengthen competition enforcement and to assess the impact of competition policy.

For SAIA, engagement in these forums provides an opportunity to stay abreast of policy and regulatory developments, identify issues relevant to the non-life insurance sector and strengthen its understanding of the changing competitive environment.

SAIA will continue monitoring these developments and engaging with relevant stakeholders to ensure that the interests and perspectives of the non-life insurance industry are appropriately considered as competition policy evolves.