MPA Expands Presence In India In Response To Growing Market
MUMBAI / SINGAPORE – The Motion Picture Association (MPA) is expanding its presence in India, welcoming the leadership of experienced film and television industry veteran, and long-time MPA representative and consultant, Uday Singh, who will be Managing Director, reporting to Belinda Lui, President & Managing Director Asia Pacific, MPA.
Singh takes up his position with the global advocacy organization as the film, television and streaming industry in India has experienced record growth. In 2019 the industry’s economic contribution was USD 49.8 billion (INR 348,972 Cr) a 61% increase over 2017, according to a new report from Deloitte launched during FICCI’s E-Frames virtual event earlier this year. The report also found that the industry supported a total of 2.6 million jobs.
“I am excited about the future of the entertainment industry in India,” said Singh. “The sector is blessed with highly creative, motivated and entrepreneurial professionals who share a vision for a dynamic domestic and international business. At the same time, India stands at a crossroads on the policy front – let’s ensure we take the path that incentivizes the industry and allows it to flourish, supports millions of quality jobs, and delivers the best possible viewing experience to our audience, whether at home, in the cinema, or on the go.”
Said Lui, “We are pleased to welcome Uday Singh back into the fold. The Asia Pacific is the largest theatrical and home entertainment region outside of North America, and India is one of the fastest growing markets in the region. Over many years, our MPA members have made significant investments in production and distribution in this market, and more recently have announced exciting offerings in streaming services. In response to current market dynamics, our expanded footprint in India will increase our ability to engage on the policy agenda, deepen our valued partnerships, and better serve the evolving composition and interests of our membership.”
The MPA has been closely involved in India’s film and television industry’s market development, contributing regularly to FICCI Frames; Fast Track Digital Economy Forums, again in partnership with FICCI; World IP Day screenings co-hosted with the U.S. Consulate, Mumbai; top level market reports including recurrent industry Economic Contribution reports in partnership with Deloitte; and recognition of Indian film excellence and the development of new feature film projects through the MPA APSA Academy Film Fund. In partnership with the Producers Guild of India, the MPA also partnered on the development of Creative First, a forum to highlight the vital role played by the media and entertainment industry in India to foster creativity, innovation and culture, which in turn stimulates investment, jobs and economic growth. Creative First provides quality commentary, research and additional resources on the value of copyright and the promotion and protection of the creative industries. The MPA has worked closely with industry partners on protecting creative content, particularly through the courts to prevent access to major piracy websites.
Visit Creative First here