Laos to regulate music, video industry

Laos is to put regulations in place for the production and distribution of audio and video, following an agreement between the Association of Producers and Distributors of Image and Sound and the Ministry of Information and Culture last week.

The agreement was made at the National Culture Hall between the Acting Director General of the ministry's Fine Arts Department, Mr Xaysavath Singnamvong, and company managers from the entertainment media sector.

The objective of the meeting was to present and discuss the regulations and elect a committee to lead the association.

“We are glad that our entertainment scene now has the association to oversee the regulation of production and distribution of video and sound in Laos ,” said Deputy Minister of Information and Culture, Mr Boua-ngeun Saphouvong.

“This was also a good opportunity for those running the business, including recording companies, studios, film makers, publishers, wholesalers and retailers, to be part of the committee of the association,” he said.

Media companies including Modern Music, Lao Art Media, Lao Song Centre, Top Production House, Khuanmeuang Inter Group, Record House, SVS Media and LSK have joined the association.

The meeting began with a report on the new regulations and roles of the association, followed by an election from 39 candidates for the committee.

The Director of Khuanmeuang Inter Group, Mr Khamla Nakkhavong, Director of Somchai Publishing House, Mr Somchai Thilasak and the President of Lao Star Karaoke, Mr Soulaphet Keoviengkham were elected as presidents of the association.

The objectives of the association are to promote the production and distribution of media relating to Lao culture, as well as protecting media ownership and punishing those who infringe copyright.

By PHOONSAB THEVONGSA
(Latest Update October 16, 2007)