Pakistan’s government is working to bring more Pakistani films and dramas to global platforms like Netflix, says Federal Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal.
In a post on X on Sunday, Iqbal said Pakistani entertainment content is “second to none, commanding immense demand and heartfelt appreciation across the globe.” He called the entertainment industry a key part of the country’s export plans under the government’s Uraan Pakistan programme, which focuses on exports, digital growth, climate, energy, and empowerment.
The minister said streaming platforms are important gateways for reaching international viewers, but claimed they had “been weaponised by regional politics for too long, denying Pakistani content its rightful, due space.” He added that talks are underway with Netflix and other streaming companies to fix this regional imbalance and secure fair space for Pakistani creators.
Iqbal also revealed that the government is working on building its own local streaming platform to showcase Pakistani films and shows worldwide.
ARY Digital CEO Salman Iqbal responded, saying Pakistan should build its own platform instead of depending on others. He said his channel had already turned down offers from Netflix, arguing that the market for Urdu content, over a billion viewers, is big enough for Pakistan to succeed independently.
This debate follows recent comments from filmmaker Mehreen Jabbar, who said political reasons, not quality, are keeping Pakistani content off platforms like Netflix. She remains hopeful, noting that Pakistan’s first Netflix show is expected to be released within the next year.
