ADTEB Pushes for Swift Action on Digital TV Plans by NBTC in Anticipation of 2029 Licence Termination
Digital Television Business: ADTEB Urges NBTC to Expedite Decisions
The Association of Digital Television Broadcasting (ADTEB) has encouraged the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) to accelerate its deliberations regarding digital television matters, given the upcoming expiration of broadcasting licenses in 2029.
In a meeting at the NBTC, ADTEB committee members Adisak Limparungpatanakij, Charkrit Direkwattanachai, and Dew Waratangtragoon, who serves as the association's secretary and registrar, presented a letter of appreciation to NBTC Chairman, Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck. The meeting also included a focus group session organized by the NBTC to discuss the drafting of a roadmap for television and broadcasting services in Thailand.
During the session, chaired by NBTC commissioner, Pirongrong Ramasoota, representatives from ADTEB, commercial and public broadcasting services operators, and multiplex (MUX) network providers were present. The agenda addressed the inclusion of digital television issues as an urgent item in the upcoming NBTC board meeting, which took place on May 28.
Key agenda items in the meeting included Agenda 4.19, a proposal based on the findings of a consultancy study examining future scenarios for Thailand's broadcasting industry amidst shifting media landscape, and Agenda 4.20, recommendations for feasible and appropriate methods to guarantee access to terrestrial television services on digital platforms. Both matters are integral to formulating a transition strategy for Thailand's terrestrial digital television services before the expiration of existing licenses in April 2029.
Adisak emphasized the need for a systematic and well-defined policy to assist the digital TV industry in adapting effectively to technological advancements and changing consumer behavior. He explained that while traditional terrestrial viewing still persists, it has declined significantly, with most viewers shifting to streaming or over-the-top (OTT) platforms.
Adisak pointed out that if the NBTC begins addressing the issues raised by digital TV operators over the past year, it would mark a positive first step. He expects digital TV operators and network providers to be able to prepare and revise their business plans in advance of the licence expiries four years from now, given clarity and ample time to do so.
However, Adisak cited concerns about vague assurances from the NBTC, which makes long-term planning challenging. He added that the industry faces economic uncertainty, escalating trade tariffs, and declining advertising revenue, potentially forcing digital TV operators to make staffing changes that could negatively impact quality programming.
NBTC Chairman Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck revealed that the board would conduct a more in-depth analysis of the broadcasting industry's future scenarios within the next 60 days. The follow-up report will be resubmitted to the board for further consideration, exploring potential viable digital TV channels, policy directions, and measures to support the industry without imposing undue burdens. Measures mentioned include reducing MUX operating costs and adjusting Universal Service Obligation (USO) requirements.
The NBTC is still considering whether to proposes legal amendments to allow licence renewal without re-auctioning digital TV spectrum after 2029, requiring a parliamentary legislative process. Sarana expressed confidence in the NBTC's ability to facilitate a smooth transition, ensuring the continued existence of digital television in Thailand.
On the issue of establishing a national TV platform – an OTT-based alternative ownership model – Sarana stated that no formal discussions have taken place yet. The NBTC will review the findings of the 60-day study before making further decisions.
Over the past year, the NBTC has modernized several regulations to support the growth and development of the broadcasting and related industries. Key initiatives, driven by NBTC commissioner Pirongrong Ramasoota, focus on regulatory framework for convergence, support for public-interest content, encouragement of industry self-regulation, and promotion of community broadcasting. However, some of these projects remain stalled, pending inclusion on the NBTC board agenda.
- The digital television industry, under the oversight of the Association of Digital Television Broadcasting (ADTEB), is facing an imminent challenge due to the upcoming expiration of broadcasting licenses in 2029.
- As the digital television landscape shift continues, Adisak from ADTEB called for a clear and well-defined policy from the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) to aid the industry's adaptation to technological advancements and changing consumer behavior.
- Amidst economic uncertainty, escalating trade tariffs, and declining advertising revenue, Adisak also emphasized the need for the NBTC to address the concerns raised by digital TV operators, allowing them adequate time to prepare and revise their business plans.
- With the goal of facilitating a smooth transition and ensuring the continued existence of digital television in Thailand, NBTC Chairman Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck revealed that the board would conduct an in-depth analysis on the broadcasting industry's future scenarios within the next 60 days.
- As part of their strategy to support the growth and development of the broadcasting and related industries, the NBTC is considering legal amendments to allow license renewal without re-auctioning digital TV spectrum after 2029, potentially boosting investments and fostering growth in the digital television business on the international stage.
