COSOMA: Malawi Copyright Society Relies on Outdated CD Burning Data for Blank Media Levy Royalties

• COSOMA relies on CD burning data for Blank Media Levy royalties despite the growth of digital streaming platforms.
• The use of outdated data may lead to underpayment or misallocation of royalties, affecting Malawian artists and music industry professionals.
• Lawyers advising clients on music industry royalties should be aware of this issue and consider advocating for more accurate payment methods.

COSOMA's reliance on outdated CD burning data may lead to underpayment or misallocation of royalties, ultimately affecting the livelihoods of Malawian artists and music industry professionals.

COSOMA, the Copyright Society of Malawi, has admitted to relying on outdated CD burning data to determine royalty payouts for billions of kwacha in Blank Media Levy royalties. This revelation comes despite the significant growth of digital streaming platforms like YouTube, which have revolutionized the way music is consumed. The issue was highlighted during a meeting between COSOMA, Akometsi Ltd, and Madness Entertainment. According to reports, the meeting aimed to address concerns over royalty payouts, but it appears that COSOMA's reliance on CD burning data remains unchanged.

The Blank Media Levy is a tax imposed on blank media such as CDs and DVDs in Malawi. The revenue generated from this levy is used to fund the music industry, including royalty payouts to artists and rights holders. COSOMA's role is to distribute these royalties fairly among stakeholders. However, the continued use of CD burning data raises concerns about the accuracy of these payouts. Lawyers advising clients on music industry royalties should be aware of this issue and consider advocating for more accurate payment methods.

COSOMA's reliance on outdated CD burning data may lead to underpayment or misallocation of royalties, ultimately affecting the livelihoods of Malawian artists and music industry professionals. The issue highlights the need for COSOMA to adapt to changing consumer habits and technological advancements in the music industry. By continuing to use outdated methods, COSOMA risks undermining trust in the royalty payout system and potentially harming the very people it is supposed to support.

Lawyers advising clients on music industry royalties should be aware of COSOMA's continued use of CD burning data, which may lead to underpayment or misallocation of royalties, and consider advocating for more accurate payment methods.

Source: Original reporting via Malawi24