The Pakistani government has launched discussions with Netflix and other major streaming platforms to secure greater international visibility for Pakistani films and television productions. The move aims to expand opportunities for local creators while positioning the country’s creative industry as a key contributor to exports under the government’s economic transformation agenda.
Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal announced that the government is also developing Pakistan’s own independent over the top (OTT) streaming platform to showcase local stories to global audiences. The initiative forms part of the broader “Uraan Pakistan” strategy, which identifies the creative economy as an important source of export growth and international engagement.
Government seeks bigger global platform
In a statement, Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistani dramas and films have earned growing recognition around the world. He described the country’s creative and cultural industry as a major pillar of Pakistan’s future export strategy.
The minister said global streaming services have become essential gateways for reaching international audiences.
However, he argued that regional politics has prevented Pakistani productions from receiving equal opportunities.
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“They have unfortunately been weaponised by regional politics for too long, denying Pakistani content its rightful, due space.”
To address the issue, the government has opened discussions with Netflix and other leading streaming companies.
“Our goal is clear: secure an equitable share of space and open sustainable partnership avenues for Pakistani creators,” he said.
Pakistan plans its own OTT platform
Alongside negotiations with international platforms, the government is pursuing a domestic digital streaming service.
According to Ahsan Iqbal, Pakistan is “actively working towards developing Pakistan’s very own independent OTT platform to champion stories globally.”
The proposed platform would provide filmmakers, producers and television studios with another avenue to distribute Pakistani content worldwide. It would also reduce dependence on foreign platforms while giving local creators greater control over distribution and monetisation. The minister did not announce a launch timeline or provide details about funding or management.
Industry eyes global expansion
Pakistani dramas have built loyal audiences across South Asia, the Middle East and diaspora communities in Europe and North America. Productions such as Humsafar, Zindagi Gulzar Hai, Suno Chanda and Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum have attracted millions of viewers beyond Pakistan through television networks and digital platforms.
Industry experts have long argued that Pakistani productions remain underrepresented on major international streaming services despite their popularity. Director Mehreen Jabbar recently said politics, rather than content quality, has limited Pakistan’s presence on platforms such as Netflix.
The government’s latest initiative seeks to change that by creating fairer access to global audiences while strengthening Pakistan’s creative economy. Officials believe wider international distribution could generate export earnings, create jobs and attract investment into the country’s entertainment sector. If negotiations succeed, Pakistani creators could gain significantly greater visibility on global streaming platforms while the planned national OTT service could further expand the reach of local stories.
