FDI in print media (entertainment magazine)

Malav Shah (Company Secretary and AVP Legal)   (171 Points)

07 September 2009  

 Dear All, 



I am looking for incorporating a company who's main object will include publishing, distributing of entertainment magazines. The promoter is a UK Citizen. 



As per the Master circular of RBI on Foreign Investment in India, 

FDI in print media is as under 



1) Publishing of newspaper and periodicals dealing with news and current affairs : upto 26% under FIPB route. Subject to guidelines issued by Ministry of Information & Broadcasting. (https://www.mib.nic.in)



2) Publishing of scientific magazines/ specialty journals/ periodicals : upto 100% under FIPB route Subject to guidelines issued by Ministry of Information & Broadcasting. (https://www.mib.nic.in)



1) Will the above investment fall under Automatic Route or FIPB route? 

According to me, it will require FIPB approval. 

2) Suppose if the Foreign entity invest only upto 49% of Equity in the company and not 100%, then too we need to take FIPB approval. 



your Views required.



Thanks 

Malav