Amendments to Broadcasting Code aim to increase local programming

The amendments adopted by Parliament to the Broadcasting Code aim to offer broadcasters a larger range of forms of advertising to allow them to earn more money, which would ultimately enable them to meet proposed requirements for higher amounts of local programming, Marian Pocaznoi, the chairman of the Broadcasting Coordination Council (BCC), told Info-Prim Neo. “In autumn the BCC will likely propose a measure requiring broadcasters to have at least 30-40% of local content. So, to prevent excuses that there is not enough money on the advertising market, these amendments have been adopted”, said Marian Pocaznoi. The TV channels and radio stations that fail to provide local programming will be banned from airing advertising. The amendments also concern the airtime destined for advertising and teleshopping and rules for placing it. The amendments, which are in line with the EU's 2010 Audiovisual Media Services Directive, were adopted yesterday by the parliamentary majority. The amendments that concern entities re-broadcasting programs from abroad will enter into force on 1 January 2013 and the rest are effective immediately.