BUY NOW PAY LATER – SACRRA Roundtable Feedback

Dear DCASA Members,

SACRRA hosted a stakeholder round table on 14 July 2026 to discuss the regulation, credit-bureau reporting and consumer-protection implications of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) products.

The main point of agreement was that BNPL should be visible and appropriately regulated, but should not simply be treated as a traditional credit card or loan. A tailored and proportionate framework is required to address affordability, multiple BNPL commitments, consumer disclosures, returns and refunds, credit reporting and complaint resolution.

SACRRA confirmed that more than two million BNPL records were submitted during May. However, these are not yet being displayed on consumer credit profiles while the appropriate reporting and classification framework is finalised. Two dedicated BNPL account types have been proposed, and the NCR is expected to issue guidance on how this information should be reported and displayed.

The discussion also highlighted the need for:

• Appropriate affordability assessments and visibility of accumulated BNPL commitments.
• Clear repayment terms and consequences at the point of sale.
• Fair treatment of BNPL information in credit scoring.
• Clear processes for returns, refunds, disputes and consumer complaints.
• Better South African data on BNPL usage, defaults and its impact on already financially distressed consumers.

SACRRA is finalising a BNPL Data Playbook and Position Paper, together with a consumer-education initiative in collaboration with FINASA.

The regulatory position is still developing, and DCASA will continue participating in these discussions to ensure that the interests of consumers and the debt-counselling industry are properly considered.