By JAMES MUYANWA –
MULTICHOICE has increased DStv and GOtv subscription fees in Zambia by 30 per cent effective November 8, 2015.
According to a statement released by the local public relations office, the increase has been necessitated by the fluctuating foreign exchange rates.
The company states that the price adjustment is necessary given that the costs of providing DStv and GOtv services in Zambia are mainly in US dollars.
It states that this is consistent with economic trends in the country with other providers of imported services responding similarly.
In determining its price increase, MultiChoice takes into account many other factors, including the impact on the subscriber and current inflation.
“From  April 1, 2015 until now, the Zambian Kwacha has fluctuated from just below K7.7000 to K12.3900 to the US dollar, averaging a 61 per cent increase.
“With the price increase being pegged at 30 per cent only, it means MultiChoice’s increase is still well below the inflation rate and that the business has over this time absorbed the foreign exchange difference for the subscriber,” states the Press release.
It states that as a consequence MultiChoice will not recover the full extent of losses arising from the devaluation of the Kwacha.
“In keeping with current economic trends, MultiChoice would also like to advise that it may in the interim have to consider a quarterly review of its pricing.
“As the leading video entertainment service provider we strive to continuously improve our services and product offering by providing our subscribers with the best television experience supported by great subscriber management services.”