The phrase "sector counterparts" refers to other organizations or businesses that operate in the same field or industry as another organization. These counterparts are essentially competitors or peers within a specific sector. Full definition
«In addition, we plan to help advise governments and private sector counterparts on how to support and invest in startups and tech,» the company said. (disrupt-africa.com)
And dollar for dollar, college educated government employees make less than their private sector counterparts. (nystateofpolitics.com)
A report by Policy Exchange published last week claimed that public sector workers are better off than their private sector counterparts in terms of hours worked, retirement age and pension quality. (politics.co.uk)