India’s Multiplex Association Opposes Netflix’s Proposed Warner Bros. Discovery Takeover

Overview

• The Multiplex Association of India formally objected to the reported $72 billion deal, citing risks to the country’s theatrical market.
• MAI said it will present its concerns to regulatory authorities in India as well as international watchdogs.
• The group warned of fewer high-profile studio films for cinemas and of shortened or eliminated theatrical windows under Netflix ownership.
• Netflix’s agreement to buy Warner Bros. Discovery is described as a cash-and-stock transaction expected to close after a corporate separation targeted for Q3 2026, subject to approvals.
• MAI, representing more than 11 chains with roughly 550 multiplexes and about 3,000 screens, stressed Warner’s long-standing role in India’s release calendar and the wider jobs ecosystem supported by cinemas.