The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) has moved to amend data expiry regulations in a bid to strengthen consumer protection.
Under the new rules, mobile network operators will be required to roll over unused data bundles until they are fully depleted. The amendments also apply to unused SMS and voice bundles. ICASA published the updated End-User and Subscriber Service Charter Amendment Regulations, 2025 in the Government Gazette following sustained public concern over the high cost of data.
The regulations will come into full effect on 23 January 2027. They require licensees to apply bundle usage sequentially, starting with bundles closest to expiry, and to roll over unused portions at least once without additional charges, provided the subscriber’s number remains active. Bundles valid for seven days or less, as well as uncapped, free and promotional bundles, are excluded.
ICASA further stated that bundle validity must be extended where subscribers are unable to use their data due to faults on the part of the licensee. Mobile networks will also be обязed to notify users when their data usage reaches 50%, 80% and 100%.
The announcement has been widely welcomed by consumers, trade unions and political parties. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), which has long campaigned against data expiry citing socio-economic challenges, said the amendments would ease pressure on households struggling with the rising cost of living. The party added that it would now shift focus to addressing high data prices and what it describes as exploitative pricing practices.
