BROADBAND MARKET
Policy undermines bid to cut network costs, says authority
The Independent Communications Authority of SA (Icasa) has criticised the information and communications (ICT) policy white paper, saying it could hamper efforts to reduce the cost to communicate. Icasa said on Wednesday the white paper made it onerous for operators to access spectrum, which made it harder for them to reduce operating costs. In May Economic Development Minister Ebrahim Patel announced that SA’s high data costs would be investigated by the Competition Commission. Icasa is reviewing the broadband market and has said the reduction in the cost of data would depend on the outcome of the review. The delay in the migration from analogue to digital broadcasting had also frustrated players in the ICT sector who were desperate for additional spectrum, Icasa said. Digital migration is crucial for freeing up spectrum, which will boost connectivity and efforts to reduce data costs. The regulator briefed the select committee on communications and public enterprises about efforts ...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.