Singapore set to rewrite foreign broadcast rules

SINGAPORE: Despite a move to amend the Broadcasting Authority Act, Singapore is hoping foreign broadcasters lured there with tax incentives will continue to base their regional operations in the city. Under the amendments, the government is seeking to curtail or halt cable broadcasts deemed to be interfering in domestic politics. Foreign broadcasters - such as BBC, CNN, CNBC and Bloomberg - which fail to comply with the act can also be fined up to Sdollars 100,000 (USdollars 55,000). The changes will bring the legislation in line with the foreign print media laws which allow the government to stop the distribution of errant titles. Christopher Donville, president of Singapore's Foreign Correspondent's Association (FCA), issued a statement stating the "FCA is concerned the legislation may impede the flow of accurate and legitimate information into and out of Singapore". Nic Van Zwanenberg, head of network distribution for the BBC, said: "From our point of view it's business as usual because we currently abide by an impartial approach to journalism." However, he added that the change could impede Singapore's efforts to become a regional news hub. There are 40 foreign channels on Singapore Cable Vision and the government offers tax incentives to broadcasters producing programmes in Singapore for the region.

Sign In

Trouble signing in?

Reset Password: Click here

Contact Customer Support at

Customerservice@campaignasia.com