Bangkok: Eight media organizations have formally petitioned the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) to establish a definitive roadmap for the future of digital television in Thailand, as current licenses are set to expire in 2029. This move is aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of the Thai media industry against global digital platforms.
According to Thai News Agency, the petition was spearheaded by Mr. Diao Woratantrakul, Secretary of the Digital Television Association, and presented to Clinical Professor Dr. Soran Boonbaichaiyapruk, Chairman of the NBTC. Copies were also distributed to all members of the NBTC board during a meeting. Police Colonel Prawes Moolpramuk, acting as Secretary to the NBTC Chairman, received the document on behalf of the commission.
The media organizations are pressing the NBTC to fulfill its legal responsibilities by issuing a comprehensive master plan for television broadcasting post-2029. They have consistently provided the NBTC with data, insights, and policy suggestions and have persistently requested that this issue be prioritized on the board's agenda. However, a concrete plan or guidelines have yet to be established, which has hindered broadcasters, especially those listed on the stock exchange, from making long-term business strategies.
The association emphasized the urgency given that less than three years remain before the expiration of digital TV licenses. They argued that strategic planning should have commenced five years in advance of the expiration date.
Key proposals submitted to the NBTC include the immediate preparation and publication of the "Master Plan and Roadmap for Television Broadcasting after 2029." This plan should address critical issues such as licensing models, service structures across all platforms, fair competition criteria, measures to protect citizens' rights to free-to-air television, and strategies for technological and network transitions.
Moreover, the organizations urged the NBTC to set a clear timeline for announcing the master plan, recommending a completion date of June 30, 2026, to afford all stakeholders adequate time for preparation.
The association warned that without progress on this agenda item within the suggested timeframe, the digital TV industry and its stakeholders could face negative impacts. They indicated that further action might be necessary if the situation remains unresolved.
Police Colonel Prawet, who accepted the letter, confirmed that the NBTC board meeting would address the issue and include it in the agenda for discussion.