The Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission (MMBC) has decided to cancel the registration of all newspapers and magazines that fail to re-register by 27 October under its new regulations.

In a statement issued today, MMBC said all existing publications must re-register and update their information within 90 days of the new regulations coming into effect.

The new regulations classify publications into four categories: newspapers, magazines, newsletters and journals. They may be published in print or operated through websites, social media, mobile applications and other electronic platforms.

MMBC said registration of newspapers and magazines, previously handled by various government ministries, was transferred to the Commission following the establishment of its legal framework.

Under the new regulations, publication registrations are valid for five years and must be renewed 90 days before expiry. Registration will be cancelled if a publication has not published any content for one year.