Recently, news of certain channels from Vietnam Television (VTV) “disappearing” from streaming applications has caused public concern. This issue not only affects users but also raises questions about the relationship between VTV and pay-TV service providers.
Reasons for some VTV channels disappearing from streaming platforms
The program “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” airs on VTV3 (Photo: VTV).
VTV’s Efforts to Improve Content Quality
As the National Television Station, VTV is committed to providing engaging and high-quality programs to meet the growing demands of its audience. To achieve this, VTV has invested heavily in improving content quality while expanding distribution across various platforms. From traditional television to the national digital platform VTVgo, VTV strives to offer the best viewing experience.
In addition to VTV1, the essential free-to-air channel, VTV also offers a package of channels from VTV2 to VTV9, as well as VTV Can Tho. These channels have been cooperating with many pay-TV service providers under retransmission agreements for years. The VTV channel package plays a crucial role in attracting subscribers and generating significant revenue for telecommunications companies.
However, the current licensing fees paid by pay-TV providers do not adequately reflect the value of VTV’s content. This has prompted VTV to initiate negotiations to establish a new partnership model since late November 2024.
Negotiations and New Partnership Agreements
According to official announcements from VTV, negotiations with pay-TV service providers are ongoing. Some providers have reached agreements with VTV, while others who have not yet reached consensus will temporarily cease broadcasting the entire VTV channel package due to lack of necessary legal grounds.
All parties involved plan to hold a meeting chaired by the Ministry of Information and Communications to seek fair and harmonious solutions for the common good. This step is crucial in addressing the current disagreements.
Alternative Options for Users
Currently, users can continue to watch all VTV channels by using the VTVgo digital platform, terrestrial digital TV systems, or pay-TV platforms that have reached agreements with VTV.
This announcement came after channels VTV2 and VTV3 were removed from platforms like FPT Play, TV360, and MyTV starting January 16, 2025. The platforms cited “inability to reach an agreement with Vietnam Television” as the reason.
Trends in Pay-TV Development in Vietnam
According to statistics from the Ministry of Information and Communications, the number of pay-TV subscribers in Vietnam increased from 18.3 million in 2023 to 21 million in 2024. Despite this growth, the pay-TV sector still faces significant challenges, including issues related to pricing, online copyright, music royalties, and managing gambling and sports betting ads.
Conclusion
The disappearance of some VTV channels from streaming platforms highlights existing issues in Vietnam’s pay-TV industry. Transparent and fair negotiations between VTV and pay-TV service providers are needed to ensure the rights of both suppliers and consumers. In the meantime, users can opt for alternative platforms to continue watching their favorite programs.
