Film Board of South Africa Urges Apple for Compliance with Local Laws

South Africa’s Film and Publication Board (FPB) recently brought Apple under scrutiny for not paying fees and failing to register as a content distributor. The FPB pointed out that this has had a negative impact on its financial operations.

During a meeting with the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Communications, Acting FPB CEO Makhosazana Lindhorst discussed Apple’s non-compliance, highlighting the challenges caused by a “large film distributor” – later revealed to be Apple. The FPB is considering geoblocking as a potential measure to restrict non-compliant services.

Lindhorst mentioned exploring legal options to enforce compliance, with geoblocking being a way to prevent non-compliant platforms from distributing content in South Africa. While this is still in the discussion phase, the FPB’s actions show its commitment to regulating digital platforms within its jurisdiction.

Apple, through its legal representatives, has shown willingness to comply with the FPB’s requirements, including settling outstanding fees and fulfilling registration obligations as a content distributor. The exact nature of Apple’s non-compliance remains unclear, raising questions about whether it relates only to video content or includes games as well.

This incident reflects a growing trend in South Africa to hold digital platforms accountable to local laws, emphasizing the challenges international tech companies face in complying with stringent regulations. The FPB’s actions could set a precedent for regulatory enforcement across the continent, prompting a closer look at how African regulators can ensure compliance without disrupting consumer access to services.

ICASA’s efforts to streamline digital oversight and the FPB’s draft rules to address harmful online content indicate a broader push to enhance regulatory frameworks for digital platforms in South Africa. These changes highlight the importance for companies like Apple to engage proactively with regulators to align their operations with local requirements.