As self-regulation in the South African market turns 20, WASPA chairman James McNab outlines the challenges of making it work, the success it has incubated and where it goes next – and pulls together the lessons that markets around the world can learn from its experiences.
Key takeaways
- The self-regulatory association in South Africa was established 24 years ago to create industry rules to protect consumers and ensure seamless integration of premium rate and wholesale services with government regulations and network operator business rules.
- The association is currently revising its code of conduct to align with current legislation and market changes, including digital advancements and new features from networks.
- The association’s purpose is to maintain market sustainability, adhere to business rules, and protect consumers, with a regulatory body enforcing these rules.
- The association aims to bring together colleagues from different companies to discuss common goals and ensure market sustainability and consumer protection.
- The association has the ability to adapt quickly to changes in government legislation and market conditions, unlike the slower-moving government regulator.
- The association must keep up with technological and advertising changes to remain relevant and effective in its role.
- The association is organizing panels to educate members about new technologies like RCS and aims to help educate consumers on market changes.
- The South African market is predominantly prepaid, with different usage patterns compared to more modern European markets, requiring the association to adapt its approach.
