POS operators to suspend services over exclusivity practice

POS (point‑of‑sale) network operators such as Visa, Mastercard, and other card‑payment processors have begun suspending or refusing to provide services to merchants that demand exclusivity—i.e., contracts that prohibit the merchant from accepting competing payment brands. The operators say such exclusivity clauses violate antitrust and competition rules, limit consumer choice, and undermine the open‑payment ecosystem. By halting service to non‑compliant merchants, the networks aim to enforce fair‑play standards and protect the ability of shoppers to use any card brand at any retailer. Views Nigeria