Maldives Broadcasting Commission (BroadCom) has held discussions with Ministry of Tourism regarding unauthorised rebroadcast in resorts.
The rebroadcasting services currently carried out in most of the resorts and tourist hotels are conducted without a licence or an authorisation of such rights. All rebroadcasters are required to obtain licence but most of the rebroadcasting services in resorts operate without such authorisation.
BroadCom expressed concern during the meeting with the tourism ministry over violation of international copy rights protection from rebroadcasters. Unauthorised rebroadcasting of content from foreign and local TV channels prevents revenue for the state as many rebroadcasters do not pay any licence fee.
BroadCom also noted it has faced many challenges in investigating and penalising unauthorised rebroadcasters because the relevant authorities are reluctant to cooperate. The tourism ministry has given assurance to the commission to find a permanent solution to the issue.