Pay television market set for radical change
Dominant MultiChoice is unhappy with the regulator’s plan
The Independent Communications Authority of SA (Icasa) is pushing ahead with its plans to facilitate the entry of new players into the pay-television market, which is currently dominated by MultiChoice. This week the regulator invited applications for radio frequency spectrum aimed at promoting diversity and competition on the digital terrestrial television platform. Icasa says once finalised, it will boost competition in the commercial subscription broadcasting space. MultiChoice, which owns DStv, dominates the market because it has exclusive contracts for premium and international content. The company has the exclusive rights to broadcast football, particularly the popular English Premier League. In a bid to break the stranglehold on the pay-TV market, Icasa is, among other measures, considering introducing shared sports rights and shortening contract periods. However, MultiChoice has said this inquiry is misplaced and has called on Icasa to focus on regulating online streaming se...
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