To protect Thailand’s TV industry, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has appointed a steering committee to lead surveillance of online streaming and broadcasting platforms.
On 24 April 2017, NBCT commissioner Col Natee Sukonrat announced that the NBTC is committed to regulating “over-the-top (OTT)” content.
OTT content refers to audio, video and other media transmitted via the internet without cable or direct-broadcast satellite television systems. Such media conventionally includes streaming, Facebook Live and YouTube.
According to NBTC research, the increasing popularity of OTT platforms such as streaming has led to a decline in digital TV audiences. This led various digital TV operators to petition the NBTC to regulate OTT platforms to prevent unfair competition and property law violations.
Col Natee revealed that the NBTC will appoint 10 independent experts to the committee, with himself as chairperson. The list of committee members will be finalised this week.
Following a trend in tightening regulations on Thai media, possible measures could include the personal identification of content providers and broadcasting licences.
Addressing concerns that regulations will extend to Facebook Live, YouTube and Line TV, Col Natee replied that he cannot answer anything until the steering committee decides the official definition of OTT.
Col Natee Sukonrat (Photo from Thaipost)
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