NBTC’s Third Broadcasting and Television Master Plan (2026–2030): Expanded Oversight of OTT Platforms and the Future of Digital Broadcasting

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NBTC’s Third Broadcasting and Television Master Plan (2026–2030): Expanded Oversight of OTT Platforms and the Future of Digital Broadcasting

Introduction:

Thailand’s National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) is currently conducting public consultations on the Draft Third Broadcasting and Television Master Plan (2026–2030), which is intended to serve as the principal policy framework for the broadcasting sector over the next five years.

The draft plan reflects the NBTC’s recognition that the media landscape has undergone significant transformation as audiences increasingly consume content through online platforms and streaming services rather than traditional broadcasting channels. In response, the NBTC is proposing a broader regulatory approach that extends beyond conventional television and radio operators to encompass digital content ecosystems, online media platforms, and emerging forms of content distribution.

The proposed framework also addresses growing concerns regarding misinformation, the competitiveness of domestic digital platforms, and the future of the digital television sector as existing licenses approach expiry.

Greater Focus on OTT and Online Media Platforms:

A key feature of the draft plan is the NBTC’s intention to strengthen oversight of over-the-top (OTT) services and online media platforms.

The traditional broadcasting regulatory framework was designed primarily for licensed television and radio operators. However, the rapid growth of streaming platforms, social media services, and other online content providers has significantly altered viewing behavior and challenged the effectiveness of existing regulatory models.

The draft plan therefore contemplates the development of regulatory mechanisms appropriate for the digital environment, including measures aimed at enhancing accountability and governance of online content distribution platforms. While the specific regulatory tools remain under consideration, the proposal signals the NBTC’s intention to play a more active role in overseeing digital media services that reach Thai audiences.

This policy direction reflects a broader recognition that online platforms have become an integral part of the communications ecosystem and increasingly influence public discourse, information consumption, and media competition.

Measures to Combat Fake News and Harmful Content:

The draft plan identifies misinformation, disinformation, and content that may create social division or public disorder as important regulatory concerns.

The NBTC proposes closer cooperation with relevant government agencies, media organizations, and digital platform operators to strengthen mechanisms for monitoring and addressing false or misleading information disseminated through broadcasting and online channels.

Particular attention is expected to be given to content that may affect public safety, national security, social harmony, or public confidence in state institutions. The draft plan also contemplates the development of systems that promote responsible media practices and improve public awareness regarding information verification.

Although detailed implementation measures have not yet been announced, platform operators and content providers should anticipate increased regulatory attention to content governance and compliance frameworks in the coming years.

Promotion of Domestic Digital Platforms and Local Content:

Another important objective of the draft plan is the promotion of domestic digital platforms and the strengthening of Thailand’s content industry.

The NBTC has expressed support for initiatives that enhance the competitiveness of local media operators and encourage the development of platforms capable of serving Thai audiences while promoting domestic content creation.

The draft plan also seeks to encourage innovation in broadcasting technologies and digital content distribution. Such initiatives are intended to support sustainable growth within the media sector and reduce structural disadvantages faced by local operators in competing with large international digital platforms.

This policy direction aligns with broader national objectives relating to digital economy development and technological self-reliance.

Preparing for the Post-2029 Digital Television Landscape:

The draft plan also addresses the future of the digital television industry as existing digital television licenses are expected to expire around 2029.

Since the transition to digital broadcasting, television operators have faced substantial economic pressures arising from changing consumer behavior, fragmentation of audiences, and increasing competition from online media services. These developments have raised questions regarding the long-term sustainability of the current broadcasting model.

In response, the NBTC intends to develop a roadmap for the future of digital television. The roadmap is expected to examine the role of terrestrial broadcasting in an increasingly digital environment, potential adjustments to licensing frameworks, spectrum management strategies, and measures to support industry sustainability.

The outcome of these discussions is likely to influence the structure of Thailand’s broadcasting sector for years to come and may have significant implications for broadcasters, investors, content producers, and telecommunications operators.

Implications for Businesses:

The draft master plan demonstrates a regulatory shift towards a more integrated approach to media governance, where distinctions between traditional broadcasting services and online content platforms are becoming less pronounced.

Businesses that may be affected by future policy developments include:

  • OTT and streaming service providers;
  • social media and content-sharing platforms;
  • broadcasters and television operators;
  • telecommunications service providers;
  • digital advertising businesses; and
  • content creators and media companies.

Although the draft plan does not itself create immediate legal obligations, it provides a clear indication of the NBTC’s regulatory priorities and may serve as the foundation for future regulations, licensing requirements, and policy initiatives affecting the digital media sector.

Stakeholders should therefore monitor the consultation process and forthcoming regulatory developments closely.

Outlook:

The Draft Third Broadcasting and Television Master Plan (2026–2030) reflects the NBTC’s effort to modernize the regulatory framework governing Thailand’s broadcasting and media sectors in response to technological change and evolving consumer behavior.

By focusing on OTT regulation, combating misinformation, promoting domestic digital platforms, and preparing for the expiry of digital television licenses, the NBTC is signaling a broader and more proactive approach to media regulation in the digital era.

While many of the proposed measures remain at the policy stage, the draft plan provides important insight into the direction of future regulatory developments and the issues that are likely to shape Thailand’s communications and media landscape over the coming years.

Key Takeaways:

  • The NBTC is consulting on the Draft Third Broadcasting and Television Master Plan (2026–2030), which will guide broadcasting policy over the next five years.
  • Regulatory attention is increasingly shifting towards OTT services and online media platforms as digital content consumption continues to grow.
  • The draft plan proposes stronger measures to address fake news, disinformation, and other forms of harmful online content.
  • The NBTC seeks to promote domestic digital platforms and strengthen the competitiveness of Thailand’s content industry.
  • A roadmap is being developed to address the future of digital television ahead of the expected expiry of digital TV licenses around 2029.

Although no immediate legal obligations arise from the draft plan, businesses should monitor future regulatory initiatives that may affect platform governance, content regulation, and broadcasting operations.

Author: Panisa Suwanmatajarn, Managing Partner.

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