Key Takeaways
- Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal discusses talks with Netflix and other streaming platforms.
- Pakistani content is seen as second to none, commanding global demand.
- Government aims to develop an independent OTT platform to champion local stories.
Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has announced that Pakistan is in discussions with major streaming platforms such as Netflix to secure a fair share of the global market for Pakistani creators. In a statement on X, Iqbal highlighted the significant demand for Pakistani dramas and films, which he described as 'second to none'.
According to Iqbal, under the government’s Uraan Pakistan export strategy, the creative and cultural industry is recognized as a cornerstone of national export efforts. He emphasized that while platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime are crucial gateways to global audiences, they have been 'weaponized by regional politics', denying Pakistani content its rightful place.
The minister stated, ‘While major OTT platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime are critical gateways to the global audience, they have unfortunately been weaponised by regional politics for too long, denying Pakistani content its rightful due space.’ He added that the government is working towards changing this situation. 'Recognising our massive export potential, the Government of Pakistan is currently in talks with Netflix and other global streaming giants to adjust the regional framework,' Iqbal said.
The minister’s goal extends beyond merely securing a seat at these platforms’ tables; he aims to develop Pakistan's very own independent OTT platform. 'Our aim is not just to wait for a seat at their table but to work towards developing Pakistan’s very own independent OTT platform to champion stories globally,' Iqbal stated.
Iqbal further elaborated that the government sees this as an opportunity to leverage Pakistani content's global appeal and export potential. ‘Pakistani dramas and films are second to none, commanding immense demand and heartfelt appreciation across the globe,’ he said. The minister believes that by working with these platforms, Pakistan can ensure its creators receive fair compensation and recognition.
The discussions also aim to address the challenges faced by Pakistani content producers in accessing global markets. 'We need to ensure that our creators are not just seen as a means for regional politics but as valuable contributors to the global entertainment landscape,' Iqbal added.
While details of the negotiations remain scarce, the government’s commitment to expanding local creator opportunities is clear. The development of an independent OTT platform could provide a significant boost to Pakistan's creative industry and its export strategy.
Pakistani dramas and films are second to none, commanding immense demand and heartfelt appreciation across the globe.
Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives
Recognising our massive export potential, the Government of Pakistan is currently in talks with Netflix and other global streaming giants to adjust the regional framework.
Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives
