‘Data prices prevent fourth industrial revolution,’ say Durban Chamber
South Africa had the highest price in 2016 for the 500MB prepaid data at $23,42, which is estimated around 180 per cent more than the cheapest BRICS countries.
THE Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) welcomes the release of the Data Services Market Inquiry by the Competition Commission.
According to the Data Services Market Inquiry, when adjusting for different price levels across countries in April 2019, South Africa had the highest price in 2016 for the 500MB prepaid data at $23,42, which is estimated around 180 per cent more than the cheapest BRICS countries.
Chief executive officer of DCCI, Palesa Phili said the affordability of data remains the main barrier limiting the increased adoption and use of the internet and internet-based technology.
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“As a future-focused organisation, the Durban Chamber believes that government needs to quickly address the issue of increased allocation of spectrum to internet service providers and technology companies. This is crucial if we are to fully embrace the Fourth Industrial Revolution and transition towards becoming a knowledge-based economy that is empowered to generate sustainable and inclusive economic growth,” said Phili.
DCCI said their concerned echoed issues highlighted as a priority by government on several occasions namely, by President Ramaphosa in his 2019 State of the Nation address and by the Minister of Finance in his 2019 budget speech.
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“Opening up the spectrum will reduce data costs, increase speeds as well as improve overall accessibility which will, in turn, allow for greater access to digital and technological opportunities. Reducing data costs will also enable entrepreneurs and start-ups to innovate and develop faster to be on par with other emerging economies in terms of access to data and pricing. There is an urgent need for robust discussion between the public and private sectors to achieve a sustainable solution with an allotted timetable and rollout plan as well as revised data pricing plans that empower and encourage a broader audience to adopt the internet and technology,” said Phili.
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