BEC World Plc has cinched a deal with JKN Global Media Co, Thailand's largest global content management and distribution company, to explore more international markets with its 70 Thai soap operas.
The move aims to strengthen BEC World's potential as a leading entertainment operator while driving more revenue from the venture.
Prachum Maleenont, vice-chairman of the board and chief executive of BEC World, believes the long-term partnership with JKN Global Media will give the company more stable revenue and added international exposure.
BEC World operates three digital TV channels -- Channel 3 HD, Channel 3 SD and Channel 3 Family -- whose 70 popular Thai soaps will be managed by JKN Global Media.
Mr Prachum refused to discuss exact figures, but said this partnership is expected to generate at least 100 million baht because many countries want to buy its Thai content.
The two companies are making progress on deals in Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Brunei.
BEC World's Thai soap content is exported to many countries such as China, Hong Kong, Cambodia, Vietnam and Myanmar thanks to committed fan bases, but he said having JKN Global Media manage business will strengthen the footprint expansion and portfolio because JKN has strong experience in content management and distribution.
Mr Prachum said with Channel 3's wide range of content comprising Thai soaps, news, variety and entertainment, documentary programmes, making a partnership with JKN Global Media will enhance the company's strength and help reach more audiences.
"Exporting more content means we're generating a large amount of revenue," Mr Prachum said.
The revenue-sharing agreement between BEC World and JKN Global Media was not disclosed but Mr Prachum said it depends on the contract for each country and the duration.
JKN Global Media chief executive Jakkaphong Jakrajuthatip said Thailand's content distribution is still low, despite plenty of quality content.
He said BEC World's Thai soap content has very high potential for success, with emotion and quality that meets international demand.
Focusing more on emerging markets such as Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, The Philippines and Brunei will pave the way for a bigger market in the future, he said.
"JKN and BEC World's content will not only target Asia but also bigger markets such as the Middle East and Latin America," Mr Jakkaphong said.
JKN normally allocates 600-800 million baht to import international content and this year. Mr Jakkaphong said the company will increase Indian content from 20% to nearly 50% to tap into the growing trend of Thai audiences and to distribute to more digital TV channels.