Spotify Pushes Back Against Blanket OTT Regulations for Music Streaming in India

Spotify has voiced concerns over proposed regulatory changes that could bring music streaming platforms under the same framework as video-based OTT services. The company argues that music streaming operates differently from video content and should not be subjected to identical compliance measures.  

Industry Concerns and Regulatory Debate  
- The Indian government has been considering extending the Digital Media Ethics Code to music streaming platforms, a move aimed at increasing accountability.  
- Spotify’s Chief Public Affairs Officer, Dustee Jenkins, cautioned that such regulations could raise compliance costs and stifle creativity within the industry.  
- The company highlighted that Indian artists were discovered over 11 billion times globally on Spotify in 2024, demonstrating the platform’s role in expanding India’s cultural influence.  
- Spotify has introduced initiatives like RADAR and EQUAL to support emerging artists and promote diversity in music.  

Market Impact and Future Outlook  
- The streaming giant emphasized that the current ecosystem has helped reduce piracy and improve monetization for artists.  
- While Spotify welcomed the government’s ₹1,000 crore Creator Fund to support media and entertainment industries, it urged policymakers to consider the unique nature of music streaming before implementing broad regulations.  
- The company remains in dialogue with Indian authorities, advocating for a balanced approach that fosters growth without imposing unnecessary restrictions.  

Sources: CNBC-TV18, Economic Times, Business Standard, Silicon India, Storyboard18