In a move to regulate the growing presence of over-the-top (OTT) services in Pakistan, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has proposed a 15-year local registration requirement for major OTT services. This move is aimed at ensuring that these services operate in compliance with local laws and regulations.
According to the proposal, major OTT services such as Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon Prime will be required to register with the PTA for a period of 15 years. This registration will involve meeting certain criteria, including:
- \”Data localization: OTT services will be required to store their data in local servers, ensuring that user data is protected and secure.
- Content regulation: OTT services will be required to adhere to local content regulations, ensuring that their content is in line with Pakistani laws and values.
- Payment of taxes: OTT services will be required to pay taxes on their revenue earned in Pakistan.
- Compliance with PTA regulations: OTT services will be required to comply with PTA regulations, including those related to data privacy and security.\”
The proposal is part of the PTA\’s efforts to establish a regulatory framework for OTT services in Pakistan. The authority has been working on a draft regulatory framework for OTT services, which is expected to be finalized soon.
The proposed 15-year registration requirement has been met with mixed reactions from stakeholders. While some have welcomed the move as a step towards regulating the OTT industry, others have expressed concerns about the potential impact on the growth of the industry.
Supporters of the proposal argue that it will help to ensure that OTT services operate in a responsible and regulated manner, and that it will help to protect user data and promote local content. They also argue that the proposal will help to level the playing field for local players in the industry.
On the other hand, critics of the proposal argue that it could stifle innovation and limit the growth of the industry. They also argue that the 15-year registration requirement is too long and could discourage new entrants in the market.
The PTA has invited feedback from stakeholders on the proposal, and it is expected that the authority will take into account the views of all stakeholders before finalizing the regulatory framework.
In conclusion, the PTA\’s proposal for a 15-year local registration requirement for major OTT services is a significant development in the regulation of the OTT industry in Pakistan. While the proposal has its advantages and disadvantages, it is clear that the PTA is taking steps to ensure that the industry operates in a responsible and regulated manner.
