The Competition Commission launches data market inquiry

File Image: IOL

File Image: IOL

Published Aug 18, 2017

Share

JOHANNESBURG - The competition commission on Friday said the data market inquiry

has been officially set in motion with the publishing of terms of reference

(ToR) in the Government Gazette.

The Commission is set to call for submissions after 20

business days. Sipho Ngwema, Competition Commission spokesperson said the

commission initiated the inquiry because it believes there are features in this

market that prevent, distort or restrict competition within the sector.

“Through the inquiry, the Commission aims to determine what

may cause or lead to high data prices with a view to ultimately making

recommendations that will result in lower prices for data services.”

Ngwema said the inquiry has been initiated in response to a

request by Ebrahim Patel, Economic Development Minister, who also has expressed

concerns over high data costs and highlighted the importance of data

affordability.

Also read: Icasa amending data services regulations to make data last longer

“Our main objectives of the inquiry is to benchmark South

African data services pricing against those of other countries; and establish

whether data supply quality and coverage is adequate by international standards

and the country’s developmental needs.

Ngwema said as per the ToR, the inquiry will assess among

others the investment in infrastructure by operators and access to allocation

of spectrum as they relate to data services price:

The inquiry is due for completion by 31 August 2018 and the

Commission will then release its findings and recommendations. 

 - BUSINESS REPORT ONLINE 

Related Topics: