South Africa: Competition Commission closed inquiry into media and digital platforms market including recommendations for content remuneration

On 24 February 2025, the Competition Commission of South Africa (CC) closed an inquiry into the media and digital platforms market (MDPMI). In its closure report, the CC presents provisional findings and remedies from an inquiry into the impact of digital platforms on the South African news media industry, focusing on search engines, social media, generative AI, and digital advertising technology. Regarding generative AI, the document notes that AI developers have benefited from South African news content without adequate compensation, and AI chatbots may further reduce referral traffic to news sites. The inquiry proposes remedies such as content deals, opt-out options for AI summaries, and measures to ensure fair value exchange.