Number Plate Price Fixing Allegations

Statement by Mlondi Mdluli, MP – DA Deputy Spokesperson on Trade, Industry and Competition:

The Democratic Alliance (DA) welcomes the decision by the Competition Commission of South Africa to refer its findings of price fixing in the number plate industry to the Competition Tribunal for a final order.

The firms involved, which manufacture blank number plates, are alleged to have set prices and trading conditions in the industry since June 2023. This pushes prices higher for South Africans, as well as undermining competition and stopping new businesses from emerging in the number plate industry. These companies also are alleged to have collaborated to add a R10 surcharge on all number plates sold in KwaZulu-Natal.

This referral is a direct result of sustained DA pressure and oversight. As early as July 2025, the DA formally engaged the Competition Commission to raise serious concerns about alleged anti-competitive behaviour in this sector. At the time, assurances were given that the matter would be concluded by December 2025. This deadline passed, and a further commitment was made for finalisation by the end of February 2026.

Despite these delays, the DA maintained consistent pressure to ensure that this matter did not fall through the cracks. We are therefore encouraged that the Commission has now acted and referred the case to the Tribunal.

This is a clear demonstration that persistent parliamentary oversight yields results, and it represents a tangible win in our ongoing fight to protect consumers, support fair competition, and promote inclusive economic participation.

However, this is not the end of the process.

We will continue to monitor proceedings at the Tribunal closely to ensure that this case is prosecuted with the urgency and seriousness it deserves. Those found guilty must face the full consequences of the law, including appropriate penalties, to deter future collusion and restore integrity in the market.

The DA remains committed to championing a competitive, transparent, and fair economy that works for all South Africans.