The National Communications Authority (NCA) has explained the rationale behind the suspension of telecommunications giant, MTN Ghana’s data zone bundle service. The authority observed the product offered the lowest price points in the market which is in breach of the Significant Market Power (SMP) regulations.
“So far, MTN has been in compliance with all the SMP measures. However, in January 2023, the NCA took note of an MTN product called MTN Data Zone Bundle, a 24-hour data bundle which offered discounts of up to 35% for various data allocations.”
Addressing the media in Accra on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, the Director General of NCA, Mr. Joe Anokye pointed out that some market players also raised concerns about the predatory nature of this package.
He added that the required prior approval was not also obtained before MTN Ghana rolled out the product.
“Further, the license obligation for all MNOs to publish their tariffs including the terms and conditions was not adhered to in respect of this product” he emphasized.
Mr. Anokye said MTN was therefore directed to discontinue the product until such time that all the violations have been remedied.
However, the NCA Boss disclosed the telecommunications giant has since submitted a revised Data Zone Bundle which has been approved by the Authority for implementation, adding, it is our expectation that the product will soon be available to customers.
The NCA assured the protection of competition in the marketplace will protect the interest of consumers in the long term.
“We will like to assure consumers and the general public that the regulatory interventions resulting from the classification of MTN as SMP are intended to sustain choice for consumers and protect consumer interest regarding the provision of innovative services and competitive pricing.” Mr. Anokye stated.
