The COMESA Competition Commission has launched an investigation into Airtel Mobile Commerce BV and MTN Group for allegedly misleading customers about transaction fees and failing to disclose foreign currency exchange rates for cross-border transfers in multiple markets.

Airtel is under scrutiny for violating consumer protection laws in Kenya, Uganda, and Malawi, while MTN Group faces similar allegations in Uganda.

The commission found that Airtel Mobile Money Kenya displayed different charges to senders before and after confirming transactions, without disclosing intermediary parties and exchange rates used.

In Malawi, Airtel Mobile Commerce Malawi Limited allegedly failed to disclose transaction details, including sender information, fees charged, and intermediary parties.

Airtel’s mobile money services in Malawi and Uganda also didn’t provide senders with the exchange rate used in cross-border transfers and the amount in recipients’ currency.

MTN Mobile Money Uganda Limited allegedly displayed different amounts to senders and recipients in international money transfers.

The commission considers these alleged conducts as misleading and unconscionable, denying consumers the right to make informed decisions.

The investigations aim to establish whether the telcos breached regional anti-trust laws, but do not imply unfair business practices at this point.