The new, two-tier approach to PO membership is being introduced in response to industry feedback and will offer different fees based upon a country’s World Bank Country and Lending Groups classification.

The PCI SSC PO Program is open globally to those affiliated with the payment card industry, including merchants, banks, processors, hardware and software developers, and point-of-sale vendors. A key benefit for Participating Organizations is the opportunity to participate in the development of PCI Security Standards.

“We rely on industry input and involvement in developing and maintaining PCI Standards and Programs, and this initiative is aimed at increasing this participation globally,” said PCI SSC Chief Operating Officer Mauro Lance. “The new two-tier pricing structure creates an opportunity especially for organizations from lower income countries to engage with PCI SSC, as well as take advantage of significant discounts for our world-class training programs. By expanding opportunities, we are making the PCI Council more accessible to a more diverse audience.”

The new two-tier PO program will introduce discount pricing to Participating Organizations based upon the World Bank Country and Lending Groups classification. Tier one applies to organizations headquartered in high-income economies that will continue to pay the current $3,750 annual fee; tier two applies to organizations headquartered in upper-middle-income, lower-middle-income and low-income economies that will pay a $2,250 annual fee, a savings of forty percent.

“We are very pleased with the pricing changes that the PCI SSC is making to the PO Program. The revised pricing structure will hopefully lead to even greater participation from organizations in South Africa and throughout the continent,” said Walter Volker, CEO of the Payment Association of South Africa (PASA). “We applaud the PCI SSC for responding to industry feedback and developing this thoughtful and inclusive policy.”

“Our Participating Organizations are highly valued, and their participation and feedback help drive PCI SSC priorities,” said PCI SSC Executive Director Lance Johnson. “Greater participation from more countries will only add to this value and give us a greater perspective from a wider range of organizations. This is a win-win for all involved.”