Media service providers will be obliged to transmit local audiovisual programs in Romanian in a proportion of at least 80% of all the produced programs, except for the providers whose audiovisual media services are intended for ethnic minorities from territorial-administrative units in which an ethnic minority represents a majority. These will have the obligation to transmit local audiovisual programs in Romanian in a proportion of at least 25% and also own audiovisual programs in the language of the given minorities. The relevant amendments made to the Code of Audiovisual Media Services came into force, IPN reports.

Under another amendment, prime time for TV was extended from 6-9am and 7-11pm to 6-10am and 5-12pm. According to the Audiovisual Council, the move will contribute to respecting the share of local programs and ensuring flexible and attractive programs for the public.

There were also introduced new provisions concerning annual reporting by media service providers and distributors to the Audiovisual Council concerning final beneficiaries and shareholders, the sources of financing and ensuring of transparency of such information for the public.