Contest for the use of radio and TV frequencies has opened

For a period of 30 days, as of May 25, interested broadcasters are invited to submit contest applications to the Broadcasting Coordination Council (BCC) for the use of 17 radio and 11 television frequencies available. According to BCC’s decision, published on Friday, May 25, in the “Official Monitor of Moldova” newspaper, the application form shall contain: the applicant’s organisational chart and capital; owner’s identification data; contents and duration of the proposed programmes; programme orientation; target audience; sources of financing the programme services; business plan, etc. In compliance with the Broadcasting Code, applicants offering programme services which comprise own and Moldovan production, as well as European works will take priority. In addition, the licensing decision will be made taken into account the applicant’s financial viability and will be in compliance with the principles of ensuring pluralism in the audiovisual field, precluding the creation of any potential conditions for a monopolistic ownership and media concentration. BCC offers five radio frequencies of “Europa Plus Moldova” radio station, three of “Hit FM”, two of the radio stations “Ecou”, “Univers FM” and “Autoradio” and by one of “Radio Sangera”, “Vanoles” and “Micul Samaritean” stations. The largest number of TV frequencies – 7 – were belonging to “TV Dixi” channel. The frequencies of “Euro TV Chisinau” and the Ungheni-based “Euronova” channel will be also auctioned. Another two frequencies announced for the contest, available in Taraclia, are not used at present. In compliance with the Broadcasting Code’s provisions, the broadcasting licences are granted for a 7-year period. The state tax for the broadcasting licence is MDL 2,500.