Making peace

Hong Kong – The licensing dispute between Television Broadcasts Limited (TVB) and Hong Kong Recording Industry Alliance Limited (HKRIA) has been resolved.

Both broadcasters have signed an agreement on use of HKRIA’s members’ repertoire up to year 2014, including a settlement of past royalties. The settlement, based on relevant market terms, was reached through the joint efforts of the parties with the recommendation and assistance of an independent Hong Kong accredited mediator.

Last year, both companies were involved in a royalty fee dispute when HKRIA increased the fee for its IP from 5 million HKD to 15 million HKD, which TVB felt was unreasonable. As a result of the conflict, music videos from recording artistes under the companies registered with HKRIA were not allowed to air.