Media industry the focus of commission’s probe

NOTING that the media landscape is not fully transformed, while emphasising its integral role to uphold democracy, the Competition Commission is turning its attention to the industry to scrutinise the distribution of media content on South African digital platforms and the advertising technology (Adtech) markets that link buyers and sellers of digital advertising inventory. According to the Commission, the inquiry launched last week stems from concerns that there may exist market features in digital platforms that distribute news media content that might “restrict, distort, or impede competition, with potential adverse effects on South Africa's news media sector”. The Media and Digital Platforms Market Inquiry (“MDPMI”) will be led by James Hodge, chief economist and acting deputy commissioner, with Paula Fray, veteran South African media practitioner serving as a panel member.…