CUTS International Calls for Fair Notice on Subscription Fee Increases by MultiChoice Ghana

CUTS International, a prominent public policy think tank, has urged MultiChoice Ghana Limited to provide adequate notice to consumers regarding any changes to subscription fees. The organization has also called for MultiChoice to refrain from issuing short notices to subscribers in Ghana.

MultiChoice Ghana (DSTV) has announced an increase in subscription prices, effective April 1, 2025, with an average rise of 15% across all subscription packages.

In a statement, CUTS International acknowledged that service providers may need to adjust prices in response to changing market conditions and operational costs. However, it emphasized that such adjustments should be communicated in a way that respects consumers’ rights and expectations, especially within a subscription-based service model.

Since MultiChoice operates on a monthly subscription basis, the think tank suggested that providing at least a month’s notice for any price changes is standard practice. However, it pointed out that MultiChoice Ghana communicated the price hike via SMS and email on March 24, 2025—less than a week before the new prices were set to take effect.

“This short notice period may not have given subscribers enough time to assess their options or make the necessary changes,” the statement read.

The think tank also highlighted a similar issue in Nigeria, where the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) raised concerns about MultiChoice Nigeria’s failure to provide sufficient notice before increasing subscription fees. As a result, the FCCPC required MultiChoice Nigeria to offer customers one month of free service as compensation. This case, according to CUTS International, serves as a persuasive example that reinforces the principle of giving consumers ample time to adjust to changes that affect their financial commitments.

CUTS International emphasized that respecting consumers is crucial, especially in markets where services are paid for in advance on a regular basis. It stated that providing clear and timely information about price changes not only fosters trust but also strengthens customer relationships.

While recognizing that MultiChoice Ghana holds a strong market position due to its access to premium content like the English Premier League and the UEFA Champions League, CUTS International noted that this market strength comes with an increased responsibility to ensure that consumers are not unfairly disadvantaged.

In markets with limited competition, the think tank warned of the risk of exploitative or unfair practices. It reiterated the need for Ghana to enact a comprehensive Consumer Protection and Competition Act, which would empower consumers, promote fair market practices, and offer avenues for redress. This legislation would also ensure that dominant service providers operate in a way that protects consumer rights and welfare.

“We hope these insights contribute to ongoing discussions about strengthening consumer protection frameworks in Ghana,” the statement concluded.