Competition law: An introduction 2026

Competition law is a niche area of law that impacts firms, their employees, customers, and consumers. The Competition Act No 89 of 1998 aims to protect and promote competition in markets, while ensuring transformation. It is heavily influenced by economics and economists. An understanding of the subject requires an appreciation of the legislation applicable and the economic ideas that guide the application of the law.

This 30-hour course seeks to foster an understanding of the policy, statutory, and economic dimensions of competition law and policy in South Africa.

When and where?

2 February to 20 February 2026 (Monday to Friday afternoons for three weeks), 16:00 to 18:00 SAST

This course will be held remotely, most likely on Zoom.

Course outline

In this course, we will cover:

• The history and objectives of competition law
• Application of the Competition Act No 89 of 1998
• Jurisdictional issues
• Market definition
• Basic competition economics
• Restrictive horizontal practices Hardcore cartels
• Restrictive vertical practices
• Abuse of Dominance
• Advisory opinions
• Exemption applications
• Merger control
• Public Interest
• Market Inquiries
• Institutions, procedures and remedies
• Civil remedies

Who will benefit from this course?

Attorneys, advocates, legal graduates, legal advisors, corporate counsel, regulatory professionals, NGOs and trade unions with an interest in enforcing the Competition Act.

Presenter

Advocate Candice Slump (B.Juris, LLB, and LLM) practiced as an Advocate for over 18 years and served as an Acting Judge in the High Court. In November 2017 she joined the Competition Commission of South Africa as Manager: Litigation. She leads complex competition litigation and provides competition law training to Commission economists and lawyers and to attorneys and advocates in private practice.

How much?

R11,280 per person

Certificate

A digital certificate of attendance from UCT will be issued to those who attend the full course.

Please note that the digital certificate can only be viewed on a secure portal. It cannot be downloaded or printed. You will have the option of ordering a hard copy of the certificate at your own cost, including the cost of the courier fee. More information is available here.

SIGN UP HERE: Competition law: An introduction | UCT Law at Work