FMI breaks new ground in Asia

MIPCOM: FremantleMedia International (FMI) has sold its hit entertainment format Got Talent into Laos, marking the country’s first major international format acquisition.

The deal, with broadcaster LNTV3, follows a number of others FMI has struck in Asia over the past 12 months, sending global song/talent formats including Got Talent, Idols and The X Factor to countries including Burma and Cambodia.

In total, FMI has brokered 25 format sales in seven Asian markets over 12 months, all overseen by Haryaty Rahman, who took over as FMI’s VP of international distribution and home entertainment a year ago.

Other format sales were made to broadcasters in the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia and Taiwan, for Hole in the Wall, Family Feud, Total Blackout, Project Runway, The Noise and Take Me Out.

“It’s a huge advantage that we are based over here as it means we completely understand the requirements of local audiences and broadcasters, allowing us to match their needs with the breadth of titles we have in our catalogue to create the perfect fit,” said Rahman.