PVR INOX Proposes Scrapping Virtual Print Fee for Film Producers Before CCI
In a major development for the Indian film exhibition sector, multiplex operator PVR INOX Limited has proposed to completely eliminate the Virtual Print Fee (VPF) and pre-release upfront charges for film producers across all languages. The commitment application was submitted to the Competition Commission of India (CCI), which has now formally invited public comments, suggestions, and objections from industry stakeholders until October 1, 2026.
The issue stems from a long-running antitrust case filed by the Film and Television Producers' Guild of India, in which the CCI directed an investigation in September 2025 into alleged dominant position abuse and discriminatory VPF levies. Under the new proposal, PVR INOX will cease charging VPF or any upfront fees within 120 days of the CCI accepting the commitments. Instead, producers will be offered a choice-based framework: either a weekly per-show Exhibition Service Charge (ESC) fixed at ₹450 for standard screens and ₹600 for premium screens (reducing after 60 shows), or a revised revenue-sharing model capping net collection deductions at 7.5 percent.
Industry analysts emphasize that this move will substantially ease the financial burden on independent and regional filmmakers, including Sandalwood and Bollywood producers, who have long complained that high upfront VPF costs restrict wide theatrical releases. The proposed shift marks a potential turning point in Indian cinema distribution economics.
