Amid the debate over Pakistani content not being aired on Netflix, Shamoon Abbasi has broken down the reasons behind it. In an Instagram video, he has detailed how, along with political reasons, Pakistani content has not met the standards set by the global streaming platform. He posted:
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While talking about a list of requirements a Netflix agent gave him, he said that Pakistan is unable to tick each point on the list. He said that the Pakistani entertainment industry is unaware of the sales development representative (SDR) workflow, color science, and sound mixing needed to produce content for Netflix. He said that there is a project in the pipeline for Netflix, but it has not been released for over 4 years for the same reason: the standards are not met.
Shamoon added that the content of Pakistan’s drama and film industry is based on family drama; however, Netflix wants expansive stories covering politics and social issues, creating greater impact and novelty. He said that the stories are successful in Pakistan, yet more global stories are needed for Netflix. He said we do not have any best-selling novels that can be recreated into series or films. Summing up, he said that Pakistan does not have the technical requirements and stories that Netflix would air on its platform. He said that we have remarkable actors and directors; however, our stories and technical standards are not good enough for Netflix.
The debate began when Minister of Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal stated that talks are underway to air Pakistani content on global streaming platforms. He posted on X:
Pakistani dramas and films are second to none, commanding immense demand and heartfelt appreciation across the globe. Under our Uraan Pakistan export endeavors, the creative and cultural industry stands as a vital cornerstone for our national export strategy.
While major OTT…— Ahsan Iqbal (@betterpakistan) July 12, 2026
While CEO ARY, Salman Iqbal, stated that Netflix had contacted them, he refused to promote local over-the-top streaming platforms. He posted:
Respectfully Sir, instead of relying on others, we need a homegrown OTT platform. We have the tech & creative skills to build it. Pakistani content already rules hearts globally. We have worked very hard to bring our content into millions of homes both in Pakistan and across the… https://t.co/B355TEU9Sh
— Salman Iqbal ARY (@Salman_ARY) July 12, 2026
