Businesses face higher fees under proposed music, audiovisual tariffs

The Performing and Audiovisual Rights Society of Kenya (PAVRS) has unveiled new proposed tariffs that could see businesses across various sectors pay more to use music and audiovisual works.

The proposed adjustments, shared on the society’s official X account on Tuesday, 12 August 2025, target establishments such as hotels, clubs, bars, restaurants, gyms, music schools, and even DJs.

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The move seeks to increase royalties for artists, producers, and other rights holders, aligning with what PAVRS describes as “global best practices” for compensating creative professionals.

The draft, which replaces multiple separate tariffs, is set to affect hotels, bars, restaurants, broadcasters, event organisers, gyms, retail stores, and public transport operators, among others.

According to the notice, the review considers changes in inflation, economic conditions, and evolving consumption patterns in the music and audiovisual industry.

Wide sector coverage

The proposed fees are structured according to business type, size, and capacity, with higher rates for venues or services that attract larger audiences or generate more revenue from entertainment.

PAVRISK and KAMP said the tariffs were prepared after “benchmarking against similar jurisdictions within the region and beyond” to ensure fair compensation for performers and producers.

Feedback process open

PAVRISK have given the public 30 days to submit comments, either by email or through their physical offices.

“All stakeholders are encouraged to review the draft tariffs and make submissions in writing to the undersigned,” the notice reads, adding that feedback will be considered before final approval by the Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO).

The organisations maintain that the review is necessary to protect the rights of performers and music producers in a rapidly changing entertainment landscape.

They argue that a standardised and updated tariff will help ensure royalties are collected more efficiently and distributed more equitably among rightsholders.

If adopted without significant amendments, the new tariffs could take effect in early 2026, impacting thousands of businesses nationwide. Industry players are therefore being urged to scrutinise the proposals closely before the consultation window closes.