By Opeoluwa Okudero 
Netflix has raised subscription prices for South African users, marking its second price hike since entering the market in 2016. The new prices are already in effect for new users, while existing subscribers will see the changes reflected in upcoming billing cycles.
What’s changing?
The price changes affect three of Netflix’s four plans:
Mobile: Now R59 ($3.21) per month, up from R49 ($2.67) — a 20% increase.
Standard: Now R179 ($9.78), up from R159 ($8.70).
Premium: Now R229 ($12.53), up from R199 ($10.87).
Basic: Remains unchanged at R99 ($5.40).
The Mobile plan’s increase is particularly notable, as it’s the first adjustment since its launch.
Why now?
Although Netflix hasn’t issued an official explanation, which raises speculations. However, unlike previous hikes, this adjustment does not come during a time of economic turbulence. In fact, South Africa’s inflation rate stood at a relatively stable 3.2% in February 2025, suggesting that operational costs may not be the core reason behind the update.
Netflix’s price adjustment follows similar moves by competitors like Showmax and MultiChoice’s DStv Stream. The shift signals a wider realignment within the streaming market, as platforms push for profitability while trying to retain subscribers in an increasingly saturated space.
Consumer impact and Netflix’s local play
While higher prices could lead to a reassessment of streaming options—especially among price-sensitive users—the unchanged Basic plan still offers a relatively affordable entry point. However, consumers may begin to expect more value in return, especially from international platforms competing with locally tailored services.
As Netflix continues to bet on African storytelling and regional content development, its strategy appears focused on long-term dominance in the continent’s growing digital entertainment market. Whether that resonates with subscribers under new pricing remains to be seen.
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