Netflix Inc. applied for a license to continue operating in Turkey, amid fears of censorship under the country's new online broadcasting rules, Reuters reported Sept. 3.
As part of obtaining a new license, Netflix will reportedly set up a local unit in the country and pay 0.5% of revenue generated to the government. Netflix is in discussions to pay similar levies in Spain and Italy.
The head of Turkey's television watchdog, Ebubekir Sahin, announced Netflix's application via a tweet. Sahin added that over 600 institutions, including local streaming platforms, had also applied for licenses.
Turkey's government earlier granted its radio and television watchdog oversight over all online content, including streaming platforms. The regulation stipulates that content providers should get a fresh license to continue operating in the country.
Netflix reportedly serves 1.5 million subscribers in Turkey.
