GHANA’S National Communications Authority (NCA) has addressed public concerns about the high cost of Internet data and the recent classification of MTN as a Significant Market Power (SMP). The NCA emphasised that MTN’s SMP status is designed to promote fair competition and not to penalise the company.
The NCA explained that its primary goal is to maintain a balanced market that supports consumer choice and encourages innovation among telecom operators. To achieve this, the regulator has introduced several measures, including different interconnection rates, fair tariffs, and technology neutrality. These initiatives are intended to ensure that telecom companies compete fairly, innovate continuously, and improve services for consumers.
‘It is important to note that the SMP classification is not intended to punish or stifle MTN’s operations but rather to ensure a level playing field in the market and protect consumer choice.
‘By implementing measures such as asymmetric interconnection rates, tariff parity, and technology neutrality, the NCA aims to promote competition, encourage innovation, and protect consumers’ interests. These measures enable other operations to compete effectively, offer sustainable pricing, and invest in improving service quality,’ the NCA said in a statement on July 21.
This response from the NCA was prompted by recent reports and public outcry on social media regarding high data prices and the impact of MTN’s SMP status on tariffs. The NCA reassured the public that it is committed to preventing unfair pricing practices that could harm competition and is dedicated to ensuring that all telecom operators comply with SMP regulations to maintain a level playing field.
The NCA’s actions aim to address these concerns while fostering a competitive environment where all operators can thrive and provide better services to consumers.
