Thailand: Advertising faces tough restrictions

Broadcasting content on satellite and cable television channels, particularly of pharmaceutical products, will be strictly controlled by the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) to govern misleading advertising.

The content restriction measures came after almost all satellite and cable TV operators applied for non-frequency broadcasting licences by the Dec 16 deadline as ordered by the NBTC.

The licences are aimed at reorganising non-frequency broadcasting services into a standard system.

Non-frequency broadcasting licences will be divided into three types: facility provider, infrastructure and channel operator. The licences will be offered for 14-15 years.

Companies receiving licences are strictly required to comply with NBTC broadcasting requirements or the licences will be revoked.

There are some 500 satellite TV channels operating on 20 satellite networks across the country. Col Natee Sukonrat, chairman of the NBTC's broadcasting committee, said the regulator will focus mainly on satellite and cable TV programming. Read More http://www.bangkokpost.com/business/economics/329123/advertising-faces-tough-restrictions