Potraz removes floor prices after uproar, accuses some MNOs of double standards

 
We refer to the above captioned Regulatory Determination on floor prices for voice and data bundled services and promotions which was issued by the Authority on 7 December 2016. As the sector regulator, we are concerned and disturbed by the conduct, double standards, negative utterances and refusal to take ownership of this decision by some Mobile Network Operators (MN0s). It has become apparent to us that the service providers have decided not to own up to the fact that they engaged the ‘Regulator regarding declining revenues which were, according to them, threatening industry viability and service roll out. In fact the MNOs met prior to the issuance of this determination and proposed even higher floor prices through their collective voice, the Telecommunications Operators Association of Zimbabwe (TOAZ).

In its quest to ensure that consumers continue to enjoy quality telecommunication services and maintain the expansion drive towards universal access, POTFRAZ positively received the plea by Operators and eventually agreed to the introduction of a moderated floor price which as envisaged by the Authority would ensure both sector viability and continuous service provision to consumers. It is clear that this decision has been met with consumer outcry, understandably so, given the current economic challenges.

It is against this background that POTRAZ would like to advise consumers and stakeholders in general of its decision to withdraw Regulatory Determination No 1 07 2016 with immediate effect.