Sri Lanka to issue license for satellite TV operators

June 26, 2006 (LBO) – Sri Lanka Monday asked satellite television broadcasters to get themselves registered and fixed an annual fee of 500,000 rupees.

The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission said cable distribution networks and satellite communications networks have to apply by July 21, 2006 to secure a license. “It applies to all satellite or cable television companies currently in operation here,” TRCs Director General Kanchana Ratwatte told LBO. Operators will be subjected to an annual cess fee based on 0.3 percent on total sales subject to a minimum 500,000 rupees. The five-year license is renewable subject to performance and adherence to license conditions. “The licensee will not be permitted to establish its own telecommunications links, other than access to satellites, to connect the system to other compatible licensed systems,” The TRC said.

The move comes following a government crackdown on three private satellite television stations – LBN, CBNSat and SATNet – for operating without license. Currently there are four-large satellite operators, but quite a few small timers operate showing free-to-air content.