MDPPACPB Regulations

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8. Review by the Authority 
 
(1) The Authority shall review the application within 45 days and may: 
    (a) Accept the application and propose draft settlement terms; 
    (b) Request additional information or clarifications; or 
    (c) Reject the application, in which case proceedings continue. 
 
9. Negotiation Phase 
 
(1) The Authority and the applicant shall enter a Settlement Negotiation Phase, 
which shall not exceed 60 days, extendable once for a further 30 days in 
exceptional cases. 
(2) Negotiations shall cover: 
    (a) The scope of admitted conduct; 
    (b) The level of penalties and fine reductions; 
    (c) Proposed remedies, compliance undertakings, or structural 
commitments; 
    (d) Disclosure and publication obligations. 
 
10. Draft Settlement Agreement 
 
(1) The Authority shall prepare a Draft Settlement Agreement reflecting agreed 
terms, which shall be signed by the applicant within 14 days. 
(2) Failure to sign within this period shall terminate the settlement process. 
 
11. Public Consultation (Optional) 
 
(1) Where the Authority considers it necessary to preserve transparency or 
safeguard public interest, it may invite third-party observations from 
complainants or market participants. 
(2) The period for public observations shall not exceed 21 days. 
 
12. Final Decision and Publication 
 
(1) Upon successful conclusion, the Authority shall issue a Settlement Decision 
within 30 days of signing the Settlement Agreement. 
(2) The decision shall: 
    (a) State the admitted facts, legal basis, and penalties; 
    (b) Outline remedies and compliance obligations; and 
    (c) Provide a summary for publication on the Authority’s website, subject to 
confidentiality obligations. 
 
 
Part IV – Fine Reductions and Benefits 
 
13. Fine Reductions