Strong FIAD Engagement in the European Commission’s Geo-blocking Consultation

On 11 February, the European Commission launched a call for evidence as part of its evaluation of the Geo-blocking Regulation, inviting stakeholders to provide feedback on whether the Regulation has met its objectives since its adoption in 2018. The consultation marks the first phase of the Commission’s assessment, which could ultimately inform policy decisions on whether to extend the Regulation’s scope to currently exempted sectors, including film and audiovisual distribution.

Recognising the potential implications for the industry, FIAD coordinated a strategic response to ensure that the voice of European film distribution was well represented in the consultation process.

Significant Industry Mobilisation

A total of 541 unique submissions were made to the Commission’s call for evidence. The vast majority of contributions came from businesses (301) and associations (99) within the film and audiovisual sector, advocating for the continuation of the sector’s exemption from the Geo-blocking Regulation.

FIAD played a key role in this effort, with 81 submissions made using the FIAD template:

🔹 61 submissions from film distribution companies – representing 20% of all company contributions 🔹 20 submissions from industry associations – accounting for 20% of all association responses

Notably, FIAD’s submission template was also used by companies and organisations outside of its membership, further strengthening the sector’s collective position.

Defending Territorial Licensing in Film Distribution

The high level of engagement underscores the industry’s commitment to preserving territorial exclusivity, which remains a fundamental pillar of European film financing and distribution. The exemption enables investment in diverse content, ensures the viability of national markets, and supports a competitive and sustainable film ecosystem across Europe.

In its template submission, the FIAD Secretariat expressed support for the European Commission’s efforts to strengthen European competitiveness. However, it also highlighted that extending the Geo-blocking Regulation to the film and audiovisual sector would contradict the Commission’s ambition to promote European businesses and reduce regulatory burdens.

Beyond the consultation, FIAD’s leadership in this debate has been recognised at a broader level. FIAD was the only film-audiovisual stakeholder interviewed by Euractiv in coverage of the Geo-blocking Regulation, reinforcing the association’s role as a leading advocate for the sector.