Karachi: Pakistani actor and producer Humayun Saeed has questioned whether the country's television industry is ready to compete on major international streaming platforms such as Netflix, arguing that local dramas follow a distinct production style that does not necessarily align with global OTT requirements.
Speaking in remarks shared by entertainment platform Galaxy Lollywood, Saeed said Pakistani dramas have developed their own storytelling and presentation style but are not yet operating at the same level as productions made for international streaming services.
He suggested political considerations might also affect the availability of Pakistani content on global platforms, though he did not identify any specific restrictions.
Saeed argued that the industry should first build its presence on domestic OTT platforms, gain experience in subscription based distribution and streaming-oriented production, and then seek wider international recognition.
His comments come shortly after actor Urwa Hocane sparked discussion by challenging comparisons between Pakistani dramas and Netflix productions.
Urwa Hocane challenges Netflix comparisons
In a recent interview with journalist Maliha Rehman, Hocane criticised the tendency to describe successful Pakistani dramas as Netflix quality.
“We're doing better than that,” she said, insisting Pakistani productions should be judged on their storytelling rather than measured against an international streaming platform. Her remarks circulated widely on social media, prompting discussion about whether Netflix should be considered the benchmark for television quality.
While Hocane emphasised the strengths of Pakistani storytelling, Saeed's comments focused on the industry's production methods, distribution systems and readiness to compete in the international streaming market.
Industry figures raise concerns over global access
Other Pakistani entertainment figures have also expressed differing views on the industry's international prospects. Veteran actor Atiqa Odho has previously questioned the limited availability of Pakistani dramas on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, arguing that local productions deserve greater international exposure given their popularity among overseas audiences.
Actor and filmmaker Shamoon Abbasi, meanwhile, has highlighted technical limitations and the need for stronger production infrastructure to compete with international streaming services.
Pakistan's television industry has built a substantial audience through traditional broadcasters and YouTube, where several dramas attract millions of views. However, success on free digital platforms does not automatically translate into commissions from subscription-based streaming services.
International OTT productions often operate under different financing arrangements, episode structures, production schedules and distribution agreements.
Government explores streaming opportunities
The issue has also received government attention. In July 2026, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistan was holding discussions with Netflix and other international streaming companies to expand opportunities for local productions.
Pakistani dramas, including Humsafar and Zindagi Gulzar Hai, have previously reached international audiences through streaming and licensing arrangements. However, major global platforms have few original Pakistani commissions.
The discussion around Saeed and Hocane's remarks reflects two sides of the same challenge: Pakistani dramas have built a strong identity and audience, but questions remain about how the industry can turn that popularity into a sustained presence on international streaming platforms.
