Significant HDTV Growth Forecast in Asia Pacific

KUALA LUMPUR/PARIS, June
20: A new survey by Euroconsult, commissioned by MEASAT Satellite Systems,
found that 75 percent of pay-TV operators in the Asia Pacific plan on launching
a high-definition offering this year.

The survey polled a total
of 25 operators in 15 markets across the region, servicing more than 24 million
subscribers. Operators are generally optimistic about HDTV prospects, the
survey says, expecting a boost in profits and average revenue per subscriber
(ARPU). HD is destined to become a “must have” as high-definition TV set
penetration increases across the Asia Pacific. Euroconsult also found that HD
is being spearheaded by newer pay-TV platforms seeking to differentiate
themselves from competitors. More established services have been slower to
embrace the technology, the survey found.

It is the lack of HD
content, and not technical issues, that has inhibited the growth of the sector
thus far, the report continues.

“The study provides clear
evidence of faster development of HD offerings in Asia than previously
expected,” said Pacome Revillon, the managing director of Euroconsult.
“Opportunity for growth and increasing competitive pressure are the primary
factors driving pay-TV broadcasters to develop an HD offer.”

—By Mansha Daswani