[2 October 2026] The notice initiating this process has been withdrawn.

Notice of Withdrawal – Inquiry into Impact of OTTs

No explanation was provided but it seems likely that ICASA will try again later in the year.

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[9 September 2026] ICASA has published a list of corrections and a replacement notice.

Notice of Intention to Conduct a Market Inquiry into impact of OTT services on licensees (corrected)

One of the corrections is to remove the step of ICASA publishing a questionnaire at the time of commencing the inquiry (this will apparently be provided alongside the discussion document to be published as part of Phase 2).

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[7 September 2026] The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) is to conduct an inquiry into the impact of over-the-top (OTT) services on licensees and the regulatory framework in South Africa.

Notice of Intention to Conduct a Market Inquiry into the impact of OTT services on licensees

The notice indicates that the scope of the inquiry will cover impact on telecommunications, broadcasting and postal service licensees.

The process to be followed:

  • Phase 1 – Commencement
    • Publication of the above notice and of a questionnaire on the ICASA website
    • Deadline for submission of questions of clarity (+10 working days)
    • ICASA response to questions of clarity through publication of a briefing note (+10 working days)
    • Deadline for written submissions (+45 working days from date of publication of briefing note)
    • One-on-one meetings as required
  • Phase 2 – Discussion Document
    • Deadline for written submissions (+45 working days)
  • Phase 3 – Public Hearings
  • Phase 4 – Findings Document (+90 working days)

Any communication relating to this inquiry can be sent to ottmarket@icasa.org.za marked for the attention of the Chairperson (OTT Market Inquiry).