ICASA discussion document open for comment

This follows the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA's) analysis of its questionnaire, released on 6 October 2010 to all licensees, which requested relevant information so that the authority can, amongst others:

• Define the market for wholesale transmission services;
• Evaluate the effectiveness of competition in the wholesale transmission services market/s
• Declare those licensees with significant market power, where necessary

The discussion document sets out the authority's initial views on the market definition, operator(s) that may have significant market power (SMP) in these markets and possible pro-competitive measures that might be applied in these markets where competition may be found to be ineffective. As a discussion document, it does not reflect the authority's final views.

Its purpose is to seek information from interested stakeholders on a number of aspects of the wholesale broadcasting transmission market in South Africa. In particular, it is interested in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the current structure and the level of competition in the market.

For more information, contact Lufuno Sigwavhulimu on tel +27(0)11 566 3683 or email az.gro.asaci@umiluhvawgisl.