Pakistan is in discussions with Netflix and other leading over-the-top (OTT) streaming platforms to secure greater international visibility for Pakistani films, dramas and digital content, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has said.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s entertainment industry while creating more opportunities for local filmmakers, producers and content creators to reach audiences around the world.
Govt seeks greater representation for Pakistani content
In a statement issued on Saturday, Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistani dramas and films have earned growing recognition and popularity across international markets, making the country’s creative and cultural industries an important component of the government’s “Uraan Pakistan” economic strategy.
He noted that global streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video have become key gateways for entertainment content to reach worldwide audiences.
However, the minister claimed that Pakistani productions have not always received fair representation on these platforms due to regional political factors.
“These platforms have unfortunately been weaponised by regional politics for too long, denying Pakistani content its rightful, due space,” he said.
Pakistani dramas and films are second to none, commanding immense demand and heartfelt appreciation across the globe. Under our Uraan Pakistan export endeavors, the creative and cultural industry stands as a vital cornerstone for our national export strategy.
While major OTT…— Ahsan Iqbal (@betterpakistan) July 12, 2026
Talks underway with Netflix and other streaming platforms
According to the minister, the government is currently engaged in discussions with Netflix and several other international OTT platforms to review the existing regional framework governing content availability.
“Our goal is clear: secure an equitable share of space and open sustainable partnership avenues for Pakistani creators,” Ahsan Iqbal said.
Netflix and Other Streaming Platforms Cancel Multiple Fan-Favorite Shows in 2026
He added that improving access to global streaming services would help Pakistani filmmakers, actors and production houses showcase local stories to a broader international audience while boosting the country’s creative exports.
Pakistan planning its own OTT platform
Alongside negotiations with international streaming companies, the minister revealed that the government is also working on establishing Pakistan’s own independent OTT platform.
According to Ahsan Iqbal, the proposed platform would focus on promoting Pakistani stories, culture and creative talent globally while providing local creators with an additional digital distribution channel.
Entertainment industry seen as export opportunity
The government believes the growing international popularity of Pakistani television dramas, films and digital productions presents an opportunity to expand the country’s creative economy.
By improving access to global streaming platforms and developing a domestic OTT service, policymakers hope to increase the international reach of Pakistani content, generate new business opportunities for the entertainment sector and strengthen cultural exports under the broader Uraan Pakistan initiative.
