Leaders of television channels and representatives from the organizations "Kyrgyzfilm" and "Kyrgyzserial" participated in the meeting. Currently, there are 42 television channels operating in the country, of which two (NTRK and ELTR) are state-funded.
The requirements of the law were discussed, which stipulates that at least 60% of the content must be in the Kyrgyz language during prime time. Tagaev noted that some private television channels are rerunning programs created decades ago just to comply with the legislation.
“Private television channels can develop according to their strategies; however, they must comply with the law, especially regarding the use of the Kyrgyz language. I am aware of the situation in the media market, but our task is to protect the rights of viewers,” he emphasized.
At the moment, there are no plans to close television channels that do not meet the established requirements; however, they should not take viewers away from actively operating channels by rerunning old shows and movies. According to Tagaev, measures will be taken against such channels based on the results of 2026.
The Deputy Minister suggested that private television channels purchase new productions from "Kyrgyzfilm" and "Kyrgyzserial" and be the first to broadcast them. He noted that the fund of these state institutions has about 400 films and more than 40 animation projects and series.
According to information provided by the Deputy Minister, private television channels can sign contracts with these institutions within 1.5 months to secure content for themselves. Otherwise, these films will be transferred to state television channels. Additionally, the Ministry of Culture will offer television channels program packages prepared by private companies. A quality check of the content reflecting the results of these actions will begin in March.
The management of the national television channel raised the issue of the quality of new films, noting that the artistic council sometimes refuses to air them, despite having permits from the ministry's department for commercial use.
The Deputy Minister noted that there is currently a problem with the quality of domestically produced content, but in the future, there will be an opportunity to choose only the best works.
At the meeting, it was also announced that a tender will be held for the creation of an animated cartoon in the Kyrgyz language with a budget of 50 million soms. Requirements for the performer will be developed, taking into account the use of artificial intelligence.
Furthermore, for the first time this year, the Ministry of Culture will announce a tender for the creation of content for print media (newspapers and websites) with an estimated budget of 10 million soms.
