Summary Pakistan is negotiating with Netflix and other OTT platforms to expand global access for local productions while also planning a national streaming service.
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – Pakistan has initiated discussions with global streaming platforms, including Netflix, to secure greater international exposure for the country's film and television industry, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal said on Sunday.
The minister said the government was working to ensure Pakistani content receives fair representation on international streaming services and to create long-term opportunities for local filmmakers, producers and artists.
According to Ahsan Iqbal, Pakistani dramas and films have earned growing recognition across international audiences, making the country's creative and cultural industries an important component of the government's export-led economic strategy under the Uraan Pakistan initiative.
He said leading over-the-top (OTT) platforms such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video play a crucial role in connecting content creators with global audiences. However, he argued that regional political considerations have limited the visibility of Pakistani productions on some international platforms.
To address these concerns, the government is engaging with Netflix and other major streaming companies to review regional distribution frameworks and promote a more balanced presence for Pakistani content.
"Our objective is to secure an equitable share of space and establish sustainable partnerships that enable Pakistani creators to reach audiences around the world," the minister said.
Alongside discussions with international streaming companies, Ahsan Iqbal announced that the government is also developing Pakistan's own independent OTT platform. The proposed digital service aims to showcase Pakistani stories, films and television productions to viewers both at home and abroad.
Officials believe the initiative could help strengthen the country's digital economy by providing local creators with additional distribution channels while promoting Pakistan's culture and entertainment industry internationally.
The government has increasingly highlighted the creative economy as a potential driver of exports, employment and foreign exchange earnings, with digital media and entertainment expected to play a larger role in Pakistan's long-term economic development strategy.
If successful, the planned partnerships with global streaming services and the launch of a domestic OTT platform could significantly expand the international reach of Pakistani entertainment content and create new commercial opportunities for the country's creative sector.
