Flow Barbados’ imminent price increase for some broadband and bundled services is being examined by the Fair Trading Commission (FTC).
In a public notice yesterday, the FTC said that while its authority did not include mobile or broadband services, it would review the reported ten-dollar increase under the Consumer Protection Act, including if the company’s relevant business practices were complying with the act.
The FTC’s announcement came on the same day that Flow Barbados confirmed that “effective November 1, 2026, some broadband and bundle customers will see a price adjustment on their bills”.
“Affected customers have been notified directly via email, text message, website, traditional and social media with additional information being made available through our customer communication channels,” the company shared in a statement.
Flow’s price increase has generated major public discussion in recent weeks and the FTC said it “has noted the announcement by Flow Barbados of an increase of up to ten dollars in the monthly charges for certain broadband and bundled services”.
“While the commission regulates rates for certain services under the Utilities Regulation Act, CAP. 282, its authority does not extend to the rates charged for mobile or broadband services,” the telecommunications sector regulator stated.
Has the authority
“However, the commission has the authority to examine the announced increase under the Consumer Protection Act, CAP. 326D, including whether the relevant business practices comply with the requirements of that Act.
“The commission is therefore reviewing these aspects of the proposed changes and has requested further information from Flow including the contractual provisions being relied upon to implement the increase, the timing and manner in which consumers have been or will be notified, and details on the consumers who are likely to be affected.”
FTC probing increase
The FTC said it was, therefore, “examining when consumers were first notified, the methods used to communicate the change and the effective date of the proposed increase”.
“The information requested relates to the categories or groups of consumers impacted by the increase, including the services and packages to which the increase will apply. This will allow for better understanding of the extent of the impact across Flow’s customer base and whether different groups of consumers may be affected differently,” it explained.
“The commission has also requested details regarding any additional services, features or other value that consumers will receive in connection with the increased price.”
In its statement yesterday, Flow Barbados said it recognised “the importance of affordability for Barbadian households and businesses and appreciated the continued trust and loyalty of our customers”.
“While we remain mindful of the financial pressures customers face, we must also continue to invest in the network, technology, products and services that support the connectivity experience our customers expect,” the company stated.
It added: “Over the past year, Flow has continued to enhance the value delivered to customers through improvements to our network, increased access to faster and more reliable connectivity, greater data allowances and new innovations designed to provide customers with more flexibility and peace of mind.
Improving customer experience
“These efforts form part of our broader commitment to improving customer experience and ensuring that our services continue to meet the changing needs of the people and businesses we serve.”
The FTC had some advice for consumers in its public notice, encouraging them to “carefully review any communication received from Flow concerning changes to their services or charges and to monitor their bills to ensure that any changes are consistent with the notice they received”.
Review current packages
“Consumers should also review their current packages and consider whether those services continue to meet their individual needs. Consumers remain free to make their own decisions regarding the telecommunications services and packages that best suit their circumstances,” the commission advised.
“The commission will provide further information to the public as appropriate following its consideration of the information requested from Flow.” (SC)