Netflix calls for stronger IP protection for Thai screen industry

Thailand needs stronger intellectual property protection and greater creative freedom to help its screen productions reach international audiences, Netflix executive Andrew Ure said at a Bangkok forum on October 13. He said the country could develop into an entertainment hub comparable to South Korea.

Ure, Netflix’s vice president of global affairs for Asia-Pacific, spoke at the Creativity as Capital: Driving the Next Growth Frontier forum, linked to the 2026 IMF–World Bank Group Annual Meetings. According to The Nation, he identified skilled crews, an established television sector, varied locations and government incentives as Thailand’s advantages.

Netflix’s figures put its investment in Thai content at more than US$200 million across 2021–2024. The company said that spending supported over 20 original films and series, with work provided for more than 13,500 people in cast and crew roles. It has also funded training and talent development.

Ure described Thailand’s investment incentives as internationally competitive, but said effective IP enforcement was needed to sustain confidence among producers, investors and rights holders. He also called for regulations that give filmmakers and businesses room to create varied content.

Separately, the Creative Economy Agency is preparing a national action plan covering 2028–2032. Its priorities include taking Thai content abroad, developing talent, increasing the commercial use of IP and spreading industry growth nationwide. Government figures showed foreign productions generated more than ฿7.51 billion in the first nine months of 2026.

On artificial intelligence, Ure said tools could help smaller studios with storyboarding and post-production rather than replace human creativity. Netflix said professional skills and storytelling remained central as it sought further partnerships with Thai creators.