The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) is weighing the potential regulation of over-the-top (OTT) platforms in Thailand to create a level playing field and ensure equal treatment in the telecom sector.

 

Despite major foreign OTT platform providers having established operations offices in Thailand and adhering to value-added tax (VAT) payment rules, the regulator is contemplating whether these operators should pay additional fees to benefit the country’s economy.

 

NBTC chairman Dr Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck indicated that the regulator may explore a regulatory framework for OTT players’ use of local telecom operators’ networks, particularly mobile phone operators. However, he emphasised that the framework would need careful implementation and require extensive discussion and active participation from relevant stakeholders, including the government, the regulator, network providers, OTT service providers, and consumers.

 

“It’s too early to elaborate exactly when and how it would be implemented,” Dr Sarana said.

 

Popular OTT platforms in Thailand include YouTube, Facebook, TikTok, and Line. The content on these platforms is regulated by the Computer Crime Act, under the Digital Economy and Society and Ministry. Dr Sarana noted that Thai consumers’ heavy use of digital platforms drives the continuous development of these platforms.

 

By Alex Morgan

Caption: NBTC chairman Dr Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck, Image courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Full Story: https://thethaiger.com/news/business/thailands-nbtc-mulls-supervision-of-ott-platforms-for-fair-telecoms

 

-- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-06-09

 

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12 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Despite major foreign OTT platform providers having established operations offices in Thailand and adhering to value-added tax (VAT) payment rules, the regulator is contemplating whether these operators should pay additional fees to benefit the country’s economy.

In other words fleece the foreigners.