The Ukrainian national commercial broadcaster 1+1 Media is unlikely to start encrypting satellite channels before this May.
Speaking to Liga Biznes and quoted by Mediasat, its DG Alexander Tkachenko added that the encryption will be beneficial to 1+1 Media as it will help it control the distribution of content.
It will also contribute to the development of the pay-TV market in Ukraine.
Other major broadcasters in Ukraine have also obtained permission from the regulator National Council to encrypt satellite channels.
Tkachenko revealed that once the Viasat channels are encrypted the full package will cost on average UAH120 (€3.7) a month, with the minimum package cost being UAH69.