SABC on Netflix? ICASA inquiry could reshape South Africa’s streaming landscape

The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) may face significant changes as the communications regulator, ICASA, investigates over-the-top (OTT) services, including streaming and messaging platforms. This inquiry could lead to OTT services being integrated into South Africa's communications licensing framework, potentially imposing new compliance requirements on platforms operating in the country.

The law firm Webber Wentzel highlights that OTT service providers could be brought under the licensing framework, facing new obligations related to voice, messaging, video streaming, and other internet-based services. The inquiry may also impact broadcasting licensees, as streaming platforms compete with traditional broadcasters for audiences and advertising revenue.

ICASA may consider imposing requirements similar to those on licensed broadcasters, such as local-content quotas and must-carry obligations for foreign streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video. Additionally, the inquiry could influence the fair share debate, where OTT providers and networks often grapple over their respective contributions to telecommunications infrastructure costs.