Hong Kong – The satellite industry is poised for on-going growth in the region, according to experts at the recently concluded CASBAA Satellite Industry Forum in Singapore. With delegates and speakers drawn from around the world, the CASBAA Forum provided a platform for the global and regional leadership to review the key issues affecting the industry including market demands, regulatory issues and the challenges provided to the sector by other telecoms and TV distribution services. Despite the challenges, including crowded orbital slots and new competition for vital broadcasting spectrum, the Asian market remains dynamic, driven by strong growth in the pay-TV sector. Approximately 60 per cent of all satellite operator revenues in Asia are generated by TV distribution. However, the meeting also recognized that the industry faces long-term challenges. In particular, there is a real threat to far reaching “C-band” satellite frequencies which are the foundation of broadcast content distribution in Asia. These vital C-band frequencies are under threat as governments consider assigning satellite frequencies for WiMax and other broadband wireless systems. The CASBAA Forum heard that spectrum defense has to be viewed as a long-term campaign, and governments were urged to move wireless systems into alternative and less disruptive bands. “Otherwise there is a genuine threat to the prospects for TV distribution across Asia,” said Simon Twiston Davies, CEO, CASBAA. “If we do nothing, millions of Asian consumers could lose access to the best possible entertainment, education and information services.”