FCCPC Directs MultiChoice Nigeria to Maintain Subscription Prices Amid Investigation
The FCCPC has ordered MultiChoice Nigeria to maintain its current subscription prices due to an ongoing investigation into a proposed price increase. A rescheduled hearing is set for March 6, 2025, where MultiChoice executives are expected to provide a comprehensive response. The directive aims to protect consumer interests amidst concerns over possible market dominance abuse.
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has instructed MultiChoice Nigeria to sustain its current subscription prices during an ongoing investigation into its proposed price increase. This directive follows MultiChoice’s request for an extension for its scheduled appearance before the Commission. Although the FCCPC granted this extension, the pay-TV provider must attend a rescheduled investigative hearing on March 6, 2025, with all relevant officers present and a comprehensive response prepared.
The FCCPC emphasized that MultiChoice must not alter its pricing structure as it stood on February 27, 2025, until a concluding decision is reached. This order aims to protect consumer interests amid concerns regarding possible market dominance abuses by MultiChoice. The Commission’s move is particularly pertinent given MultiChoice’s notification about a planned subscription price hike set to commence on March 1, 2025.
The Commission expressed apprehension regarding MultiChoice’s frequent and unilateral price hikes, which may indicate anti-competitive behaviors within Nigeria’s broadcasting sector. In a statement reported by Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Corporate Affairs at the FCCPC, the initiative also involves collaboration with sector regulators to cultivate a fair competitive digital subscription ecosystem in Nigeria.
“The FCCPC is deeply concerned that Nigerian consumers continue to face frequent price increases, amid accusations that MultiChoice applies different pricing strategies in other markets, heightening questions about fairness and market abuse,” the statement noted. Penalties, sanctions, or other corrective measures may be enforced if MultiChoice does not adequately justify its pricing strategies or is found to breach fair market practices.
In summary, the FCCPC has mandated MultiChoice Nigeria to halt its planned subscription price increase while an investigation ensues. The directive seeks to shield consumers from potential harm and address ongoing concerns about anti-competitive practices within the pay-TV industry. Further developments will be monitored as the Commission continues its inquiry into MultiChoice’s pricing strategies.
Original Source: businessday.ng
