At a time when people are home streaming movies and TV shows during the global Coronavirus pandemic, Belinda Lui, President & Managing Director Asia Pacific, Motion Picture Association, emphasized the importance of Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE), the global coalition to reduce piracy and protect the legal marketplace for creative content.

“We’re proud of the program MPA continues to make in combating online piracy under the banner of the ACE,” said Lui addressing industry leaders at the 5th edition of Fast Track Digital, as part of the FICCI Knowledge Series. “MPA along with the ACE will continue to protect the copyright that protects all work through every form of distribution channel.”

“In just over three years ACE has grown to include 35 leading global media and entertainment  companies with Apple TV plus, becoming ACE’s newest member. ACE remains proactive in addressing online piracy by disrupting and disabling access to the most egregious online websites. The research also shows that site blocking leads to increasing uptake of legitimate services,” said Lui.

She cited the recent closure of Tamilrockers, which traded off the theft of intellectual property (IP) as testament to the efforts of rights holders, in protecting the rights of all creators. “There is a strong will to support legitimate business and create the best possible playing field,” Lui stated.

Lui said that the entertainment industry is encouraged by spirit, ingenuity, and community displayed by those in the digital sector worldwide. “One sector that has led the charge in innovating to deliver the best possible experience for audiences is the Video On Demand (VoD) industry,” said Lui. “The incredibly dynamic nature of the Indian VoD industry led by highly talented professionals has helped deliver a very high standard of storytelling.

Over 40 Indian OTT services are vying for the audience’s attention for both the subscription and advertising models. The number of factors that contribute to positioning India as one of the fastest VoD markets in the world include the enthusiasm of fans who love their content, the range of viewing options available to the audience and the broadband connectivity.