Key facts
- Hong Kong renewed free-to-air TV licenses for HKTVE, TVB, and i-Cable HOY for 12 years.
- New conditions include boosting local production of English-language national education shows and programs about Hong Kong.
- Licenses extend until 2039 for HKTVE and TVB, and until 2040 for i-Cable.
- The decision was made by the Chief Executive in Council on October 13, 2026.
- Broadcasters committed to investing HK$2.298 billion, HK$6.23 billion, and HK$950 million respectively over the first six years of their renewed licenses.
Hong Kong authorities have renewed the domestic free-to-air television programme service licences for three broadcasters—HK Television Entertainment (HKTVE), TVB, and i-Cable HOY—for a further 12 years. The decision, announced on October 13, 2026, by the Chief Executive in Council, follows recommendations from the Communications Authority.
The renewed licences, which take effect between April 2027 and May 2028, will run until 2039 for HKTVE and TVB, and until 2040 for i-Cable. This renewal comes with updated licence conditions and a package of regulatory changes aimed at supporting the broadcasting sector's long-term sustainability and strengthening Hong Kong's media ecosystem.
New programme requirements include increased local production and broadcasting of English-language programmes focusing on Hong Kong stories and national education content. Stricter subtitling rules and a cap on simulcast content have also been introduced. The government has also provided greater flexibility for broadcasters to air non-designated language programmes on integrated channels and reduced requirements for positive programming hours.
As part of the renewal process, the three broadcasters committed to significant multi-year investment plans. HK Television Entertainment committed HK$2.298 billion (approximately US$295 million) for 2027-2033, TVB pledged HK$6.23 billion (approximately US$801 million) for 2028-2033, and i-Cable committed HK$950 million (approximately US$122 million) for 2028-2034. In total, the broadcasters committed nearly HK$9.5 billion over the first six years of their renewed licences.
The government stated that these measures support Hong Kong's objective of strengthening its position as a regional broadcasting and communications hub, aligning with national and regional development plans. Administrative reforms, including simplified reporting obligations and streamlined complaint-handling, are also being implemented to reduce compliance costs.