The South African Competition Commission's Media and Digital Platforms Market Inquiry (MDPMI) recently concluded and has been regarded as a significant step in addressing the power dynamics between digital platforms and publishers. Interestingly, while the commission imposed financial remedies on Google, Meta did not face similar penalties, prompting critical inquiries into the reasons behind this decision. This disparity has sparked debates about the commission’s approach and whether it can effectively regulate platform power in the Global South.

The final report of the MDPMI, which is unique in its depth and ambition for the region, has been highly anticipated, as it marks a notable move towards confronting the influence of digital platforms on media markets. However, the ongoing appeals by South African publishers concerning the commission’s remedial framework related to Meta remain private, limiting transparency and public scrutiny. This situation raises significant concerns about accountability in the regulatory process and whether the remedies in place are sufficient to protect local publishers and maintain a balanced market.

As the implications of the inquiry extend beyond South Africa, they could shape how competition regulators in other Global South countries approach platform regulation in the future. The commission's decision to exempt Meta from financial remedies might set a precedent that could influence similar inquiries around digital platform regulation globally, posing questions about equity and fairness in how competition law is applied across different companies operating in the same sector. Though the inquiries have been groundbreaking, ongoing dialogue about their effectiveness and integrity continues to be critical for future regulatory efforts.