The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) is reportedly planning to crack down on over-the-top (OTT) platforms like Netflix following the Eidul Azha holiday.
The announcement was made by Khalid Arain, Chairman of the Cable Operators Association of Pakistan, who said that a productive discussion had occurred between cable operators and senior Pemra officials.
Arain said that the cable operators had raised concerns about the growing popularity of OTT platforms, which they argue are not subject to the same regulatory oversight as traditional cable television providers.
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The cable operators also requested that Pemra take action against operators who provide both internet and cable services, arguing that these companies are unfairly benefiting from their dual role.
Pemra has responded positively to the cable operators’ demands, and a committee has been established to address the issue of licensing cable operators. The committee will also initiate a crackdown on OTT platforms after Eidul Azha.
In addition to the crackdown on OTT platforms, Arain also called on Pemra to exempt the cable sector from taxes. He argued that the cable sector is similar to the solar power industry, which is currently exempt from taxes.
Arain also highlighted the unfairness of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) collecting Local Loop license fees from cable operators in US dollars, while subscribers make payments to cable operators in the local currency.
Arain said that this situation is unfair due to the current rupee-dollar exchange rate. He urged Pemra to take action to address this issue.
The crackdown on OTT platforms and the call for tax exemptions are the latest developments in the ongoing battle between cable operators and the regulatory authorities in Pakistan. It remains to be seen how PEMRA will respond to these demands.